Sermon for the Watford church of Christ
Introduction, v0
QUESTION: “What does it mean to be content?”
The goal is contentment
NOT proud, BUT content, THEREFORE vision
Hope not possible without contentment
Spurgeon said it “..is one of the shortest psalms to read, but one of the longest to learn.”
- The Problem, v1
What led to this decision? Presumably he had this problem. “NOT” X 3.
A. Why are we not content?
Comparisons with others – God does not accept me
Anxiety/Fear – God is not enough, cannot be trusted
Realisation we are not in control and we cannot manipulate God to get what we want
Some things God does not reveal: (Deut 29:29)
Selfish ambition: (Ecclesiastes 4:8 NIV11)
B. The issue is NOT
Ambition: (Philippians 3:12–14) - The Solution, v2
Humility (Matthew 18:2–5). Self-awareness – we need God.
Aware of God’s presence and strength
Bathsheba – aware of her / Goliath – aware of God – 1 Sam 17.37; 45-47
Hebrews 13:5 – Want God more than things
Philippians 4:11–13
QUESTION: “What helps you to be content?” - The Vision, v3
Hope not possible without contentment
Living in hope
Blessing others – active, not passive
(Philippians 4:2–9 NIV11)
Conclusion
Jesus’ inspiration – Confident in identity, value, Father’s love
Therefore – courage to serve and sacrifice
True contentment leads to the freedom to serve
Please add your comments on this week’s topic. We learn best when we learn in community.
Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here’s the email: malcolm@malcolmcox.org.
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“Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11)
God bless, Malcolm
PS: You might also be interested in my book: “An elephant’s swimming pool”, a devotional look at the Gospel of John
