Sermon Central
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Boat Potatoes
Contributed by David Radcliff on Mar 25, 2016 (message contributor)
Summary: Taking risks.
BOAT POTATOES
Matthew 14:28-34, Matthew 25:14-30
John Ortberg – (book, If You Want To Walk On Water You've Got To Get Out Of The Boat)
Story of grandmother
I. ANYTIME A GIFT IS GIVEN
The recipient must choose to respond in one of two ways
A. THIS GIFT IS SO VALUABLE IT CAN'T BE RISKED.
Those who follow this first way realize that when the gift is brought out of the box and into the open, things may not always go well.
The gift may be poorly used sometimes. (JUANITA LOWE)
It may not always be admired by others the way we want. (THE CHRISTMAS STORY – LAMP WITH FISHNET STOCKING)
It may even get broken.
Taking the gift out of the box is always a risk.
B. THIS GIFT IS SO VALUABLE IT MUST BE RISKED.
Those who follow this second way understand that if the gift is not brought out of the box, it will never be used at all.
To leave the gift in the box is to defeat the desire of the giver.
***There is no tragedy like the tragedy of the unopened gift.***
Our success with God depends on whether we are willing to take the gift out of the box. Our success depends on whether we are willing to get out of the boat!
It is amazing to me how often we forget this. So many people blame their refusal to get out of the boat on some external circumstance:
I Would develop my gifts more thoroughly, but I have a boss who stifles my initiative.
I would pursue another job, but I need the money/security/familiarity of this one.
I would devote myself more fully to spiritual growth, but I can't find the time.
I would have realized more of my potential, but no one was ever interested in mentoring me.
WE PLAY WHAT SUSAN JEFFERS CALLS THE "WHEN THEN GAME."
"When I feel confident, then I'll try using this gift."
"When my boss is more supportive, then I'll be more successful."
"When I have more time, then I’ll serve God the way I should.”
***Jesus warns us that the primary reason potential “water-walkers” become boat potatoes is our fear. We’re afraid to step out, we bury our gift.***
Look with me to the parable Jesus told in Matthew 25.
