TRINITY CHRISTIAN CENTER CHURCH MISSIVE

Vol. 7:–No: 14(April 10, 2016)

Philippians 4:13-“I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.”

How can we grow in the knowledge and wisdom of God? One good way is through experience. I vividly recall the first time I ever taught in a classroom setting as a full time rookie teacher. I had achieved excellent grades in my experience as a college student and done quite well in my experience as a student teacher. But when it came time for me to be the ‘real instructor’ to the young minds sitting before me, I suddenly realized that no matter what I had achieved in the college classrooms or the student teaching, I had no real experience in dealing with ‘my’ students.

Many mistakes were made, but through the actual experience of doing it all by myself in front of a class, I became a better teacher as the years rolled by.

We all can also grow in difficulties. Paul had been shipwrecked, beaten, stoned, and left for dead. Yet, he wrote that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. In Greek, the word character means ‘tested and approved’. You may have gone through trying times, but did not wilt in the fire. You came back solid and strong, and you understand who you are in Christ. Whatever circumstance you face, you know nothing can stand against you as long as Christ is your mentor.

Paul goes on to say in Romans 5:5-“Hope does not disappoint because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit.” This is the voice of experience. This is the voice of someone who knows he can trust God, no matter what happens.

Faith is spelled R-I-S-K. Perhaps you are out of your comfort zone. The only thing you know is that God said to do something and He wants His people to say, “That’s all I need, God. If you have said to do it, I will.” Then we trust God to see us through whatever comes our way.

James 1:5 tells us, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.” We need to humble ourselves and say, “God, I don’t know what I’m doing. Please guide me like a child.” He won’t get mad when we ask. Instead, He promises to give us wisdom liberally. And He never disappoints!