Dependence on God
True dependence on God requires humility and a willingness to trust in His provision, even when it's difficult.
A.W. Tozer emphasizes the necessity of dependence on God through the example of Elijah, who, despite his past self-sufficiency, had to rely on ravens for sustenance in the wilderness. This illustrates the humbling process God uses to teach His servants contentment in all circumstances, whether in abundance or need. Tozer highlights the struggles faced by faithful preachers who remain uncompromising in their message, often leading to financial hardships. He encourages a commitment to truth, regardless of the personal cost, affirming that God knows how to provide for His servants even in their lowest moments.
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Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content. I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. --Philippians 4:11-12
We can learn important lessons by considering God's disciplines in dealing with Elijah. As Elijah fled to the wilderness following his first confrontation with King Ahab, God said to him, "Elijah, go to the brook Cherith, and I will feed you there." God sent big, black buzzards--ravens, scavenger birds--each morning and evening with Elijah's meals. What humiliation! All his life Elijah had been self-sufficient. Now he waited on scavenger birds to deliver him his daily bread....
Elijah was like so many faithful preachers of the Word who are too true and too uncompromising for their congregations.
"We don't have to take that," the people protest. And they stop contributing to the church. More than one pastor knows the meaning of economic strangulation. Preach the truth, and the brook dries up! But the Lord knows how to deal with each of us in our humiliations. He takes us from truth to truth. Men Who Met God, 96.
"Lord, I commit myself anew today to never compromise the truth, even if it costs me my job. Amen."
Sermon Outline
- Introduction to Contentment
- Elijah's Experience
- The Importance of Uncompromising Truth
- Committing to Dependence on God
- A personal commitment to stand for truth
- A willingness to trust God's provision
Key Quotes
“We can learn important lessons by considering God's disciplines in dealing with Elijah.” — A.W. Tozer
“God takes us from truth to truth.” — A.W. Tozer
“Lord, I commit myself anew today to never compromise the truth, even if it costs me my job.” — A.W. Tozer
Application Points
- We must be willing to trust in God's provision, even when it's difficult.
- Humility is necessary to receive God's provision.
- Uncompromising truth is essential for preachers and for our own spiritual growth.