Church of Nigeria
(Anglican Communion)
Diocese of
Abuja
Cathedral Church of
the Advent
3rd Sunday In Lent -
Sunday 19 March 2017
Today's Sermon
Theme: "The Christian Work Ethic"
Topic: Avoiding Pitfalls In The Work Place
Key Text: Gen. 39: 6 - 7
Summary:
Pitfalls come to us in
various circumstances and diverse times, in different places and through different
means.
Pitfall can be defined as
"a potential problem, hazard or danger that is easily encountered but not
immediately obvious."
It is "a type of trap
consisting of a concealed hole in the ground, victims fall into the hole and
are unable to escape".
Pitfalls abound in the
places where we work or live (Gen. 39: 6 - 7' Dan. 6: 5 - 7. 10 - 12; Luke 22:
31)
Pitfalls are evil machinations
from the pit of hell. The devil's agenda has always been to steal. kill and
destroy.
For example in our key
text, the wife of Portiphar fronted for the devil in trying to seduce Joseph to
alter his destiny, destroy his career and rob him of his testimony (his good
name, integrity, credibility e.t.c.)
Some pitfalls are man
caused - results of inordinate ambition, undisciplined lifestyle and lack of
focus.
Whatever be the case,
pitfalls can serve to build us up and perfect God's plans in our lives if we
remain focused on Him (Ps. 37: 24; Rom. 8: 28, 39)
We may learn a lot from
the Apostle Peter's exhortation to all the saints in 1 Pet. 5: 6 - 11. Writing
from personal experience, he teaches us how to avert the disaster waiting to
happen in every department of life including the work place.
* Humble yourself under the Mighty Hand of God (v. 6)
* Cast all your cares upon the Lord; don't allow distractions,
worries and unnecessary burdens to overwhelm you (v. 7)
* Do not be over excited in the face of success. There is one
who seeks your downfall. Be at alert always (v. 8)
* Resist the devil and stand firm (v. 9a) Do not give in or assist
your enemy to your downfall
* You are not alone in the battles you face (v. 9b) Your entire
brotherhood is involved, do not sit in despair; stand up
* Remember the Lord's call on your life always (v. 10). Even
when you have fallen, remember His eternal purpose for your life. He still
cares. The shakings are not forever. Turn to Him for restoration.
* Give God all the praise and glory in all things (v. 11)
The pitfall you experience
today is the strength you need tomorrow.
For every challenge
encountered and overcome is an opportunity for growth.
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