2016-03-02 Blessings of the Lord Make Rich Part 1

Blessings of the Lord Make Rich Part 3

The Love of God

The Language of God

Peter bluntly proclaims, "it would be better for them [people once free who reject the truth] not to have known the way" (2 Peter 2:21 NASB). If sin demanded Christ pay such a high price, why do we treat sin lightly? Don't walk away from God's plans for your life. Confirm your calling and choosing.

Are you trying to be the pipe or the pump? Successful living comes from trusting God as the source. When I try to be the pump, I become powerless, dissatisfied, failing, and defeated. King Uzziah's life offers wisdom to us all (2 Chronicles 26:5).

Peter describes the false teachers as following the way of Balaam (2 Peter 2:15-16). Balaam is a strange personality - a combination of spiritual gifts and corrupt character - whose greed lead to his destruction. Balaam knew the will of God; he just did not want to do it. It is foolish to be for what God is against, and against what God is for. Expect blessings while on the right path and danger while on the wrong one.

A Love Story of Redemption

God has a plan for weeds and wheat. God knows how to rescue His own while punishing the rebellious. Peter warns us that judgement is sure, but deliverance is possible. Heaven or hell hang on the decisions and choices we make. Jesus' parable of kingdom (Matthew 13:24-43) vividly illustrates Peter's warning (2 Peter 2:4-9).

Pastor Greg Simon suggests stop excusing, talk less, listen more, and think first. God wants His people to use their mouths as instruments to bless other people. Unfortunately, many believers get taken in by plastic, manipulative words. In the second chapter of 2 Peter, Peter warns of the danger of WORDS, APPETITE, IMMATURITY, and SEPARATION. Pastor Greg concludes with seven suggestions: set boundaries, maintain your God-centered personal identity, be assertive, be Holy-Spirit-led, refuse the guilt trip, stay connected to solid support, and limit interactions with the plastic words of manipulative people.