Proverbs 17:24

An intelligent person aims at wise actions, but a fool starts off in many directions (Good News Bible).

 

Avoid an Attitude of Presumption: James 4:17

Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn’t do it, sins.

1. Look back at past blessings. Psalm 84:1-4

2. Look forward to His powerful promises.

Psalm 84:9-12

A. His presence . v. 9

B. His providence . v. 10

C. His protection . v. 12

 

Acknowledge Your Personal Limitations:

Galatians 5:15-21

If you keep on biting and devouring each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other.

16So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature. 17For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want. 18But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under law.

19The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; 20idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions 21and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.

1. Your time on earth is precious . Psalm 90:10-12

2. Your attitude determines your outlook .

Philippians 4:13

3. Your relationships make or break you. Romans 14:7

 

Analyze Your Assets and Liabilities: Philippians 1:19-30

1. Clarify your life purpose . v. 19

for I know that through your prayers and the help given by the Spirit of Jesus Christ, what has happened to me will turn out for my deliverance.

2. Focus on your strengths . v. 20

I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death.

3. Maintain your personal growth . vv. 21-26

For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. 22If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! 23I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; 24but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body. 25Convinced of this, I know that I will remain, and I will continue with all of you for your progress and joy in the faith, 26so that through my being with you again your joy in Christ Jesus will overflow on account of me.

4. Surrender to the will of God. vv. 27-30

Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in one spirit, contending as one man for the faith of the gospel 28without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be savedand that by God. 29For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for him, 30since you are going through the same struggle you saw I had, and now hear that I still have.