1. In 1 Kings 4 the Bible tells us about Solomon's wisdom. a. We learn from vs.29-30 that his great wisdom came from God. b. Much of his wisdom can be learned from his proverbs and songs (vs.32). c. Solomon mentioned a number of objects that are listed in vs.33. d. Vs.34 shows us that people traveled great distances to hear his wisdom. 2. Many years later, Jesus came to earth to fulfill His ministry. a. His primary work was teaching and preaching. b. He also used objects to illustrate His lessons [seed, fish, flowers, etc]. 3. Today we are following the examples of Solomon and Jesus as we concentrate on "4 essential lessons." a. These lessons relate to health care. b. They also relate to some very important spiritual matters.
Discussion:
I. FIRST, HAVING CLEAN HANDS IS ESSENTIAL
A. From the field of health care, having clean hands is essential for preventing the spread of viruses, diseases, and infections. 1. Doctors and nurses wash their hands, use sanitizers, and wear gloves. 2. This helps them to avoid getting germs and spreading germs. B. Spiritually, having clean hands is essential for being in good standing with God. 1. This point is made in Psalm 24:3-5. 2. The Bible often uses a person's hands to describe his spiritual condition. a. (Acts 2:23) The people who crucified Jesus did so with "wicked hands." b. (1 Timothy 2:8) Men are to pray, "lifting up holy hands." 3. The good news is that our hands can be cleansed (James 4:8-10). 4. The cleansing agent is the Lord's precious blood (1 John 1:7, 9). C. Having clean hands is essential.
II. SECOND, FOLLOWING THE DOCTOR'S ORDERS IS ESSENTIAL
A. From the field of health care, a medical doctor uses his training to prescribe medicines and treatments. 1. A qualified and reputable doctor is concerned with healing his patients. 2. We have to follow his orders for our health to improve. B. Spiritually, Jesus is "the Great Physician," and we must follow His orders. 1. He invites us to come to Him for healing (Matthew 11:28-30). 2. We must comply with His instructions (Hebrews 5:9; John 2:5). C. Following the doctor's orders is essential.
III. THIRD, MAINTAINING POSITIVE INFLUENCE IS ESSENTIAL
A. From the field of health care, a medical doctor must avoid unethical behavior to maintain positive influence. 1. We sometimes hear about doctors doing things that are illegal. 2. We certainly need to appreciate those who maintain ethical standards. B. Spiritually, Jesus taught His followers about influence in Matthew 5:13-16. 1. We must remember that someone is always observing our behavior. 2. We can radiate positive influence in ways that may seem insignificant. C. Maintaining positive influence is essential.
IV. FOURTH, AVOIDING A FALL IS ESSENTIAL
A. From the field of health care, great care is given to help patients avoid falling. 1. Patients with joint replacements must have assistance to avoid falls. 2. If a patient falls, his problem will probably be made worse. B. Spiritually, God's people must exercise care to avoid falling. 1. A strong warning is given in 1 Corinthians 10:12. 2. The Bible shows us how to avoid falling in 2 Peter 1:5-11. C. Avoiding a fall is essential.
Conclusion:
1. We have examined "4 essential lessons." 2. May we always strive to keep our hands clean, to follow the Doctor's orders, to maintain positive influence, and to avoid falling!
