I Should Be Further Along

Sermon Notes

Comparison is the thief of JOY and the destroyer of PURPOSE.

[Psalm 73:1-5] A psalm of Asaph. Truly God is good to Israel, to those whose hearts are pure. [2] But as for me, I almost lost my footing. My feet were slipping, and I was almost gone. [3] For I envied the proud when I saw them prosper despite their wickedness. [4] They seem to live such painless lives; their bodies are so healthy and strong. [5] They don't have troubles like other people; they're not plagued with problems like everyone else.

Comparison will POISON your PERSPECTIVE.

[Psalm 73:13-14] Did I keep my heart pure for nothing? Did I keep myself innocent for no reason? [14] I get nothing but trouble all day long; every morning brings me pain.

God’s faithfulness to SOMEONE ELSE is not evidence of Him FAILING you.

[2 Corinthians 10:12 NIV] We do not dare to classify or compare ourselves with some who commend themselves. When they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they are not wise.

Clarity comes in God's PRESENCE.

[Psalm 73:17] Then I went into your sanctuary, O God, and I finally understood the destiny of the wicked.

Worship doesn’t change your SITUATION, but it changes what you're FOCUSED on.

[Psalm 73:23-24] Yet I still belong to you; you hold my right hand. [24] You guide me with your counsel, leading me to a glorious destiny.

God doesn’t rush TRANSFORMATION.

[Galatians 6:9] So let's not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don't give up.

God's delays lead to DEVELOPMENT.

[Exodus 13:17-18] When Pharaoh finally let the people go, God did not lead them along the main road that runs through Philistine territory, even though that was the shortest route to the Promised Land. God said, "If the people are faced with a battle, they might change their minds and return to Egypt." [18] So God led them in a roundabout way through the wilderness toward the Red Sea. Thus the Israelites left Egypt like an army ready for battle.

God is never in a HURRY, but He’s never LATE either.

[Luke 16:10] "If you are faithful in little things, you will be faithful in large ones. But if you are dishonest in little things, you won't be honest with greater responsibilities.

Your worth is not tied to your PROGRESS.