God Has Blessed Us with All Spiritual Blessings (Ephesians 1:3)
Introduction:
1. This verse states that "God has blessed us with all spiritual blessings." 2. These spiritual blessings are "in Christ" [we learn from Galatians 3:26-27 how to get into Christ to gain access to these blessings]. 3. In our lesson we are pointing out 5 of the spiritual blessings that God provides for His children.
Discussion:
I. FIRST, GOD PROVIDES INSTRUCTION
A. According to 2 Timothy 3:16-17, God's Word provides the teaching, the reproof, the correction, and the instruction in righteousness that we need. B. The proper way to approach the Scriptures is revealed in Psalm 119:18. C. As we receive the instruction that God provides in His Word we are to put it into practice (James 1:22). D. By putting God's Word into practice we will be the kind of people that He wants us to be (James 1:25).
II. SECOND, GOD PROVIDES DIRECTION
A. In Psalm 23:3b David said: "He [the Lord] leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake." B. Solomon presented the right way to receive God's direction in Proverbs 3:5-6. C. This is important because "the paths of righteousness" sometimes include obstacles.
III. THIRD, GOD PROVIDES ASSISTANCE WHEN WE FACE OBSTACLES
A. God wants His children to pray when difficulties arise (1 Peter 5:7). B. As we pray we are to ask for wisdom (James 1:5-6). C. In addition to giving wisdom, God will provide: 1. mercy and grace (Hebrews 4:16) 2. a way to bear up under the trials we face (1 Corinthians 10:13).
IV. FOURTH, GOD PROVIDES COMFORT IN TIMES OF SORROW
A. David touched on this blessing in Psalm 23:4b -- "thy rod and thy staff they comfort me." B. Paul also touched on this blessing in 2 Corinthians 1:3-4.
V. FIFTH, GOD PROVIDES ASSURANCE THAT ALL THINGS WORK TOGETHER FOR GOOD
A. This assurance is stated in Romans 8:28. B. This spiritual blessing is only available to "those who love God" and "those who are the called."
Conclusion:
1. This is not a complete list of the spiritual blessings that God provides for His children, but we have examined 5 that are very special. 2. In addition to Galatians 3:26-27 the Bible explains in Romans 6:3-4 how we get into Christ so we can gain access to all of God's spiritual blessings.
