Living Victoriously in God’s Provision -- Rev. Arnold N. Vallejo (August 27, 2016)

August 27, 2016|Investors Conference Day 1 (Saturday night)
Living in God’s Provision: Other believers need my example
By Rev. Arnold N. Vallejo | Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity. 1Ti 4:12

We are called by God in the ministry to be an example. It is His will. Although 1 Timothy is written for Timothy who is a young leader, the verse is not exclusive for young people only but a generic term for all Christians. To the young people, youthfulness should not be used so people can despise you. Although youthfulness is a symbol of life, it is often tainted because of the youth’s impulsive heart. A Godly example is a commodity. The world needs it because godly examples are hard to find nowadays. People usually idolize and make the world their examples. Remember that each of us has the power to influence. In reality, whether or not we are Christians, we can and are able to influence. That is why we must use this power to strive to be godly examples to them. The world needs us to be their example of godly living. Influence or example is stewardship in itself. We must be conscious about this. Further, influence is an opportunity. Steward was a great golfer who was given an opportunity to give a huge amount for their church building project. A hall was dedicated to his name because of this. The church showed this not to honor Steward but to set an example to their Church and influence other believers to do the same as he did.

1. Our priorities set an example.
Our priority goals are not just the ones we write but more so, the things we do shows our priority. In the aspect of giving, how we give shows our priority. The question is, does our giving show that God is our priority? Let us challenge ourselves and get our hearts right with God. How much do we spend for God and His work? Excluding tithes and offerings, what else are seen in our budget?
Let us not be like the seemingly givers of the Church. These are the generous ones who always give a hand to others but neglect their duties to give for God and His work. A true giver gives for the Church first. Remember, Pro 3:9 which says, “Honour the LORD with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase:”
Tithing is important because it requires faith. If we give back tithes, we are following the Word of the Lord.

2. Our sacrifice sets an example
Romans 12:1-2 says, “ I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. (2) And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” God came down and is our perfect example of sacrifice. He gave Himself for us. Let us then follow Him and learn to sacrifice. People need to feel and see our sacrifice.

3. Our consistency sets an example.
Consistency means “regularly.” 1Co 16:1 says, “Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given order to the churches of Galatia, even so do ye.” Consistency also requires commitment. People must see in us that we can live in God’s provision.
May everyone us be an example as a person who prioritizes God, is willing to sacrifice for the church, and is consistent in doing everything one has started for God. Let us always be reminded with the song:
BE AN EXAMPLE
Many now are watching the footsteps that we take;
Many soon will follow in the choices that we make.
So let us then be faithful to be what we should be,
And leave a good example that they can clearly see.

Chorus:
Be an example of the believers in word and in conduct;
Be steadfast in love, in faith, in purity of life.
For those behind us, let us stand within the gap and make a difference in their lives;
Be an example to follow Christ.
Let us then be watching the weary, day by day,
Looking to encourage and to lead them in the way;
To run the race with patience;
On Jesus fix their eyes,
And challenge them with excellence, that they might win the prize.