11/1/26                                                                               Rentz

 

 

The Right Source for Our Strength

Deuteronomy 31:1-8

 

Introduction—Moses was preparing for his departure as the leader of Israel.  God had prepared Joshua to assume the leadership after Moses had died.  As Joshua took the helm, he faced a daunting task that was most likely frightening to him.  We have a duty to fulfill for the glory of God, and we do not need to do it in our own strength.  We are also wise if we pour into the lives of others to give them the confidence that they will need to succeed in the Christian life.

 

I. Our Purpose for Being (8)

               A. We are commissioned for a purpose

                              1. Joshua was publicly recognized as the

                                  leader for the future

                              2. Joshua had the duty to lead them into their

                                  inheritance

               B. God desires to empower us for the benefit of

                   others (Josh.1:6)

               C. Discipleship is a spiritual duty for every believer

                   (I Jn.2:12-14)

                              1. Every older man should be pouring into

                                  the life of a younger man

                              2. Every younger man should be pouring

                                  into the life of a youth

                              3. Every youth should be pouring into the

                                  life of a child—my first Sunday School

                                  class

 

II. Our Power for Being (6-7)

               A. We cannot succeed in our own ability

                   (II Cor.10:3-5)

               B. God gives us strength for the purpose of honoring

                   and pleasing Him (Josh.1:7)—Jesus alone is

                   worthy of all praise

               C. God has provided an ultimate resource for our

                   victory (Josh.1:8-9)—God's unchanging Word

                   remains constant to guide us in the right way

 

III. Our Perspective for Being (1-5, 8)

               A. The same God that has worked in the past is still

                   able to work today

                              1. God is not losing His strength

                              2. God is not preparing to retire

               B. The Lord goes before us, but we have the duty to

                   follow

               C. Victory is merely a matter of time

                              1. God guides us through each battle

                                  (Josh.10:24-25)

                              2. Ultimate victory is assured (Rom.16:20)

 

Conclusion—In Christ, we are assured of eternal victory.  Without Christ, we face eternal despair.  God has provided all we need to enable us to live with confidence both now and into the future.  Keep looking to Jesus and remain committed to His Word.  We can enjoy spiritual victory in our lives.