We must want to become better Christians and be willing to work toward that goal. Our growth is directly proportional to the effort we invest (II Cor. 9:6).

I. Become a better Bible student

A. Everyone needs the Bible’s knowledge and wisdom

1. Kings need to read the scriptures (Deut. 17:19)

2. Groups of people (Acts 24:7; Acts 15:21)

3. Families (Deut. 6:4-9)

4. Individuals (Ps. 119:11; Acts 8:28)

B. Read it regularly

C. Read it analytically (II Tim. 2:15)

D. Read the Bible systematically (Psalm 1:1-2)

E. Read it completely (Matt. 4:4)

F. Read it collectively

II. Build a stronger prayer life with God

A. One of the hallmarks of a strong, faithful Christian is the kind of prayer life he or she leads. Paul frequently mentioned his prayers

B. Eph. 6:18 – Prayer is that which buckles on the gospel armor

1. “Pray without ceasing” (I Thess. 5:17)

2. Give thanks for everything (I Thess. 5:18)

3. Count it all joy when God tries us (James 1:2-3)

4. There’s always a way of escape (I Cor. 10:13): pray to find it

5. Pour out your soul in prayer (I Sam. 1:15)

6. Love and pray for your enemies (Matt. 5:44)

7. Approach God in earnest prayer (Matt. 7:7)

III. Seek God’s Kingdom first

A. Amazing that some will choose to stay home (sometimes repeatedly) over a flimsy excuse

B. Hebrew writer commands attendance: “...not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together...”

C. We have Bible authority (approved example) to meet every day just as we have it to meet on the 1st day of the week (Acts 2:46; Acts 20:7)

D. Wantonly missing a service indicates:

1. Weak faith

2. Lack of respect for God

3. Sinful attitude

4. Little love for the brethren

5. Little concern for spiritual growth

6. Lack of respect for elders and their authority

E. Hearing sound preaching is essential! (Acts 8:30-31; Romans 10:14)

IV. Put more faith in God and less in worry!

A. No power in worry! Phil 4:6 – “Be anxious for nothing...” (comprehensive command)

B. Jesus forbids worry (Matt. 6:25-32)

C. Worry has:

1. Cost millions in healthcare system

2. Crippled effectiveness of Christians

3. Retarded spiritual and emotional growth in the family

4. Led to premature deaths

5. Torn apart businesses

6. Separated souls from God

D. Worry is faithlessness, self-centeredness, distracting, and debilitating. Constant worry demonstrates a lack of faith in God!

By Unknown Author

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