Doug Norman
This message focuses on the important topic of accountability. Although we live in a society that seems to be rejecting all thoughts of personal accountability, familial (family) accountability, and accountability to the local church; these issues are important to God. Accountability opens the door for correction. Correction, when done biblically, leads to restoration. Restoration leads to peace and order.
Throughout the Bible we see that God is a God of order. From creation, to the pattern for building the Tabernacle and even in our christian assemblies we see God's order. Many times we find our lives are full of chaos and confusion - this blocks God's blessing. This series focuses on Biblical principles for getting our lives "in order."
If we fail to recognize, as followers of Christ, our battle is not against flesh and blood, we end up distracted and disengaged. If we lay down our spiritual guard, we can end up fighting the wrong enemy - the people who around us!
For the believer, the power of Christ inside of us is more than sufficient to overcome every obstacle that hinders us. Unfortunately, we often spend too much time focusing on the obstacles than the overcomer! We must be fully convinced that through Jesus - we are more than conquerors!
At the end of Joshua's life, he calls the children of Israel together and gives them a direct challenge: choose who or what you will worship! He knew what we all must know - everyone worships! The question is, "What are you and I worshipping?"
In Joshua 6:17-18, the Lord makes it clear that Israel was to stay away from "the accursed thing." This was the thing devoted to God either for judgment or for His service. This command was ignored and Israel was defeated by an inferior army. We also become weakened when we take of the accursed thing.
The Lord has given a word for Bridge of Hope Worship Center! Similar to Joshua's army as they found themselves between the Jordan River and the fortified city of Jericho, we will have to rely on the supernatural strength of God to move forward. As we do, great things await!
When the bible speaks about "the flesh" it is speaking of our old sin nature - the seat of our sinful desires. We are called to crucify the flesh, which means don't be controlled by it! This is only possible through Jesus Christ! His spirit within us gives us the needed strength. Be spirit Led!
We all come to what have been called "forks in the road" during our journey of life. The Bible is the one and only authority on faith and moral issues, however, there are a lot of questions that we face which the Bible does not give a clear answer. Jesus has promised to be our shepherd and lead us by His voice!
God sees things in us we often do not see - we all have "blind spots." Thankfully, the Lord doesn't allow us to continue in our journey without addressing these things. He knows better than us, that the "blind spots" must be dealt with as we grow in our faith.
