Hi Friends, in Part 1 of this Bible Study titled “Post COVID-19: Navigating The Future Effectively’, we covered 7 points from 1 Kings 5. The study covers the story behind the building of the temple of the Lord and of Solomon’s treaty with Hiram. (The link is provided at the bottom of this article). The 7 points were:
Ask God for unique wisdom
Right Partnerships
A clear and large vision
The power of delegation
Right Timing
Writing your thoughts down
Creating win-win situations
Today, as we conclude this study, I would like to share points 8-12. I pray they will help you to face the challenges ahead with confidence and faith!
With lockdowns being gradually eased in many countries, people are beginning to face the uncertainty of what is termed a ‘new normal’. Job losses, pay and allowance cuts, financial losses and business closures stare us in the face. At a difficult time like this, we can however go back to the scriptures to get fresh perspective and encouragement to navigate our future Post COVID-19.
Around two years ago, I was reading through 1 Kings 5 and noted down some thoughts I gleaned then but never shared. However, at this time, I would like to put those thoughts down, 12 in all, to inspire those facing uncertainty about the future. At this point however, I would like to clarify that I am sharing these thoughts, not as an expert on business matters, but only as a Pastor.
Background To Bible Passage:
In 1 Kings 5, Solomon had now become King over Israel, and felt the need to build the temple of God. His father David had the same dream in his heart but the Lord did not permit David to fulfil his desire (1 Chronicles 22:7-8) . David however made extensive preparations for Solomon to complete the project for God’s glory (1 Chronicles 22:5).
At this time, Hiram, the King of Tyre, sent his Ambassadors to congratulate Solomon on becoming King (I Kings 5:1). Solomon used the opportunity to ask Hiram for help to complete the massive task. According to what he proposed, Hiram would provide Solomon with the timber he needed for the building program while Solomon would pay handsomely for the timber in return (1 Kings 5:6).
When Covid-19 swept across almost all borders, fear and anxiety gripped hearts around the world. No one seemed safe anymore and everyone was searching for methods of protection. Today, we face new and dangerous challenges. In times of crisis, however, the children of God, as it has happened right through history, can find encouragement and comfort through the promises of God. One such passage people often turn to for comfort is Psalm 91.
As I look at social media today, I find many people sharing either the entire passage of Psalm 91 or at least parts of it, to strengthen others. Through this article, I would like to share my thoughts as well regarding this beautiful Psalm. Do keep your Bible open to Psalm 91 as you read.
This is the video of a sermon I preached at the People’s Church in Colombo, Sri Lanka on Sunday, October 6th, 2019. It is based around Elijah’s ministry and talks about some lessons God takes us through to prepare us for His powerful plan for our lives. Be blessed as you watch.
This is the video of a sermon I preached at the People’s Church, Sri Lanka, on Sunday, 28th July 2019. It is centered around the encounter Moses had with God at the burning bush. For an outline of the sermon, please click here. Thanks.
This is an outline of a sermon I preached at People’s Church, Colombo, Sri Lanka, on Sunday 28th July 2019. The sermon covers some key points from the meeting God had with Moses at the burning bush. I pray the outline will be useful to you.
I. IT HAPPENED IN THE MUNDANE
God met with Moses while he was attending to his daily work as a Shepherd.
Exodus 3:1-2 “Now Moses was tending the flock of Jethro his father-in-law, the priest of Midian and he led the flock to the far side of the desert and came to Horeb, the mountain of God. 2There the angel of the Lord appeared to him in flames of fire from within a bush. Moses saw that though the bush was on fire it did not burn up.”
This sermon on finding healing for emotional hurt was recently preached at the People’s Church in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Some of the thoughts have been taken from other Christian sources.
I once
heard a Pastor mention that he waited 6 long years to win the affection of his
future wife. The Founding Pastor of People’s Church in Sri Lanka, Pastor Colton
Wickramaratne received a vision from God in 1957 about his future ministry. He
had to persevere through many delays and challenges before the large vision
became a reality. When I began my career in Radio Broadcasting, I waited 3
years to get a proper break on the Radio Station. I almost quit, but thankfully
God came through at the right time and my broadcasting career expanded
thereafter. A number of couples I know prayed earnestly for a child for many
years before the prayer was answered.
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