Dave Havir - Victory Comes From God

Dave Havir, focusing on Proverbs 21:31, contrasts the coping abilities of the atheist (relying only on self-discipline and relationship skills) with the Christian’s coping ability of allegedly relying on God, pointing out that the atheist with strong self discipline often copes better than a believer with tepid faith in God. It behooves the believer not only to augment his faith in God, but to also develop adequate self-discipline and relationship skills. Strong reliance on God trumps having the other two skills, but all things being equal, it would be better if a Christian would exercise preparedness and common sense as well. Civil leaders, like Joseph, who have made shrewd physical preparations, have proved to be a blessing to posterity. We need to emulate the ant in its industrious preparation for the future. We need to learn to count the cost in all areas of our lives, physical and spiritual, always being prepared. We need to be developing our skills and sharpening our work ethic, and taking stock of our health tendencies as we prepare for marriage, career, having children, and building wealth. The most important thing we can do is to develop a relationship with God, diligently seeking Him and casting our cares upon Him, involving Him in all of our decisions, trusting His ability to deliver us, trusting in His timetable for our particular deliverance or promises, whether immediately, much later, or much, much later on the other side of the Resurrection.

Acts 7:54-60 * Atheist * Be careful what you ask for * Beginning of wisdom * Building relationships * Cancer * Common-sense preparation in child rearing, employment, homes, marriage, vehicles * Count the cost * Develop a personal relationship with God * Exodus 14:13-30 * Genesis 41:25-57 * Heirs of God * Hezekiah * Isaiah 55:6-9 * Jeremiah 29:10-14 * John 20:1-8 * Joshua and Caleb * Look to the ant * Luke 14:12-32 * Numbers 14:33-34 * Patience * Power of God * Preparation on God * Proverbs 6:6-8; 15:16-17; 16:8; 19:1; 21:31 * Power of God * Resources * Romans 8:17-18 * Self-discipline * II Kings 20:1-6 * 70 years * Victory belongs to the Lord * Victory comes from God * Work ethic