Talks

In this second talk on “First Things First”, Matt speaks about God’s plan for us individually, corporately as a local church but also for the worldwide church.
Using the story of Isaac finding a wife (see Genesis 24) he illustrates that there are five elements that we can learn in seeking God’s plans for our lives:

Commanding Scripture: the plan is in line with God’s word
Compelling Spirit: “God-incidences” (as opposed to co-incidences) happen
Common Sense: the obvious fits in with the plan
Council of the Saints: trusted brothers and sisters in Christ agree with the plan
Circumstantial Signs: prayers to confirm the plan are answered

There isn’t only one path for our lives, and sometimes we’re focused on one thing and God is trying to do something else.  Let’s remember that:  “God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them” (Romans 8.28)

Finally Matt encourages us with 3 things:
God is not finished with you yet! (Jigsaw Picture!) “If you’re not dead, you’re not done!”
Remember God’s big plan for your life: For you to become like his son (Romans 8.29)
Remember God’s biggest plan beyond your life: Salvation for all God’s children

How better could we start the year than by putting “Jesus at the Centre of it all!”?
Matt reminds us that we are in a battle. We are pulled away from Jesus by the world, the flesh and the devil.
It is only in partnership with the Holy Spirit that we can win that battle! The bible tells us: “The Holy Spirit that lives in you is greater than the Spirit that lives in this world” and “Take heart, for I have overcome the world”.
How do we put Jesus in the centre?

Remember who Jesus is: The centre of the universe and also of our lives (Col. 1)
Practice the ways of Jesus by starting a new habit or/and quieting another, eg Prayer, Scripture, Sabbath, Fasting, Community
Seek first the Kingdom of God in relationships, finances, choices and every other area of your life: Jesus is everything!