God Richly Gives Us All Things (1 Timothy 6:17-19)
Introduction:
1. At the end of this letter Paul gave Timothy some instructions that relate to those who are wealthy. a. Negatively, Timothy was to charge the wealthy not to be high-minded or trust in their riches. b. Positively, Timothy was to charge the wealthy to trust in the living God and do good, being rich in good works. 2. In connection with the charge to trust in the living God, Paul mentioned the fact that "God richly gives us all things" [the point we are emphasizing]. 3. Many passages address this principle. a. James 1:17 -- Every good and perfect gift comes from God. b. Ephesians 1:3 -- God has blessed us with all spiritual blessings. c. 2 Peter 1:3 -- God has given us all things that pertain to life and godliness. 4. In our lesson we are concentrating on 5 special blessings that God provides for His children.
Discussion:
I. FIRST, GOD PROVIDES INSTRUCTION FOR US (2 Timothy 3:16-17)
A. These verses actually show how God has given us the Scriptures for our benefit. B. In His Word God gives us the teaching, the reproof, the correction, and the instruction in righteousness that we need. C. To receive the blessings that the Scriptures provide we must approach them with respect (Psalm 119:97) and with the proper attitude (Psalm 119:18). D. By taking heed to the instruction that God provides in the Scriptures we receive: 1. cleansing (Psalm 119:9) 2. help during times of temptation (Psalm 119:11; Matthew 4:1-11). E. As we reflect upon the blessings that God richly gives us, let us receive the instruction that He provides in the Scriptures.
II. SECOND, GOD PROVIDES DIRECTION FOR US (Proverbs 3:5-6)
A. When Jesus observed the multitudes in Matthew 9:36 He saw people who needed direction -- they were scattered abroad like sheep without a shepherd. B. Thankfully, God provides direction for His children (Psalm 23:3b -- "He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake"). C. To receive direction from God we must comply with the conditions given in Proverbs 3:5-6.
III. THIRD, GOD PROVIDES ASSISTANCE WHEN WE FACE TRIALS
A. God will help us bear up under our trials (1 Corinthians 10:13). B. When trials come our way God wants us to pray (1 Peter 5:7). C. We need to pray for wisdom, and God will provide it (James 1:3-6). D. The Lord will also provide mercy and grace (Hebrews 4:16).
IV. FOURTH, GOD PROVIDES COMFORT IN TIMES OF SORROW
A. Matthew 5:4 B. Psalm 23:4b C. 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. It is available to "those who love God" and "those who are the called." C. Numerous examples of God's providential working are recorded in the Bible [Abraham, Jacob, Joseph, Moses, Ruth, Esther, and Daniel].
Conclusion:
1. We have looked at 5 of the special blessings that God richly gives to His children. 2. We learn from Galatians 3:26-27 how to become God's children so we can have access to these blessings.
