God's Plan for Provision

God’s Plan for Provision

Pastor Keith Hassell

Foundation Scripture:  Matthew 6:19-34

I.          Kingdom PRINCIPLE:  Lay up treasures in heaven and not on earth.

            A.        Treasures are things we have placed a value upon.

            B.         What we treasure will determine the focus of our heart.

C.        The things of this world are passing away, so make sure what you value are eternal things.

            D.        Giving temporal things is investment in eternal treasures.

1.         We can invest time, money, teaching, talents, prayer, the word of God, tapes, books, videos, tracts, food, clothing, ministry, and our lives.

II.        Doubt PERSPECTIVE:  I can’t afford to let go of anything.  In fact, I’ve got to get more.

A.        Even when we have enough, it is never enough because we worry about not having enough tomorrow.

B.         We reason that we cannot afford to give to God or to bless others.

C.        What we are saying is “I cannot afford to obey God.”

            D.        Worry leads to a stingy spirit where we hold back more than what is right.

            E.         A stingy spirit is called having an “evil eye.”

                        1.         It is closed to the prospect of giving.

                        2.         It will lead to poverty (Proverbs 11:24-26)

                        3.         Those who have a generous eye will be blessed (Proverbs 22:9)

III.       Root PROBLEM:  Who is Lord over our lives?

            A.        Who we willingly serve determines who we truly love.

B.         We cannot serve God and mammon (money and material things)

IV.       Faith PERSPECTIVE:  God is not moved by my need.  He is moved by my faith.

            A.        God knows my need.

            B.         Worry will never change anything.

            C.        Worry holds you back from obeying God in faith.

            D.        Faith in God will change everything.

            E.         Faith in the love of God and the knowledge that God will take care of me.

V.        Kingdom PRIORITY:  Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness.

            A.        Gold wants us to put Him FIRST.

B.         God wants us to put His KINGDOM first (Why are we here on this earth anyway?  We must develop a KINGDOM mindset.)

            1.         In our jobs.

            2.         With our finances and possessions.

            3.         With our time.

            4.         With our choices of activities.

C.        God wants us to seek what God says is right and not what we say is right.

VI.       God’s PROMISED PROVISION:  All these things shall be added to you.

            A.        When we put God first, we can stand in faith for His promise and provision.

            B.         Stop worrying about tomorrow so that you can obey God in faith TODAY.