Sermon Central
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Seize The Moment
Contributed by Tim Patrick on Nov 15, 2005 (message contributor)
Summary: This sermon encourages believers to seize the ministry opportunities they are given.
Are you seizing the opportunities God lays before you?
In Phil. 4 we find a group of people who seized the opportunity they were given. Paul had written the Philippian Christians to thank them for their loyal support of his ministry. He said "I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at last your care for me has flourished again; though you surely did care, but you lacked opportunity." (4:14 NKJV) There was a period of time when the Philippian believers lost touch with Paul. However, they quickly revived their lost opportunity. they seized the opportunity they were given. What kind of people were they? What kind of believer will seize an opportunity for ministry?
1. A person who seizes the moment of opportunity will be committed to Jesus Christ and the opportunities He gives them.
It begins with a commitment to Jesus Christ. (See Phil.1:1)
Jesus gives each of us special opportunities that are unique to us. Nobody in the world will have the same opportunity and privilege you are given. This is why it is imperative that all believers be involved in ministry and witnessing.
2. A person who seizes the moment will be concerned enough to be informed and involved. Paul said "But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at last your care for me has flourished again; though you surely did care, but you lacked opportunity."
The Philippian believers sought to be informed about Paul’s status. We should seek to be informed about ministry opportunities around us.
The Philippian believers, after being informed, got involved. Many churches have seen the devastation on the Gulf Coast, after Katrina. They assimilated that information and got involved with hurricane relief.
3. A person who seizes the moment will be consistent in his or her support.Paul said the Philippian believers "sent aid once and again for my necessities." (vs. 16 NKJV)
It is not always easy to be consistent in our support. Giving a tithe to support our church and its ministries may not always be easy.
There are times when we may serve alone. Paul said the Philippians believers were the only ones who supported him. They did not let loneliness stop them.
