[Steve Myers] We're back in Cincinnati again. We had been out of town over the weekend of the 4th. We were visiting Wheeling and Pittsburgh congregations over that weekend. We came back for a couple of days then we were off to Minnesota for our Ironwood Preteen Camp. And so we had started that camp a few years ago and we did a little bit of figuring. And now some of those campers that were at our very first camp that we started for the preteens in Minnesota are now 33 years old.

So they showed some pictures for the first year we had camp, and one of the little ones came up to me one of the campers, and said, “Wow, Mr. Myers, what was it like in the olden days?” The olden days, what do you mean? Wasn't that long ago. But 20 years goes by just like that sometimes and so it is amazing. We did have a wonderful time. We just didn't go to camp and sit around we had the opportunity to oversee the team challenge activities. So Kathy and I did quite a few different exercises and activities with the campers when it comes to team challenge.

And I don't know if some of you have ever been involved with team challenge, or sometimes companies will call them a little bit differently they'll call them team-building exercises. So any of you ever been involved in team-building exercises? Okay. Yes, I see the hands. Sometimes...oh, yeah, we've done that. We had an interesting time with the children we did a number of different things. And it always seems that some of the best activities have to do with blindfolds. So you give all these instructions, and then you tell them oh, by the way, you have to wear a blindfold. And so then they go in an uproar “Oh, no how are we going to do that?”

In fact, one of the probably most commonly done team-building exercise is called the Sherpa walk. Anyone ever hear of the Sherpa walk? Okay, a few of you. Like what in the world is a Sherpa? Well, the Sherpa, the name comes from those legendary high altitude guides that would lead the way up on Mount Everest, those were the Sherpas. And because of who they are and where they grew up, it seems that they have a special kind of genetic makeup that they can withstand those high altitudes. So the Sherpas were the guides, they were the ones that were the climbers and led people to the top of the world on the Himalayan those were the Sherpas.

So this idea of a Sherpa walk is taken from the idea of being guided. Now, of course, you just can't take someone and lead them somewhere you got to have blindfolds. So on the Sherpa walk, or sometimes they call it the Sherpa trust walk, you blindfold everyone, and then they are led, they are guided by only one person that can see. And everyone either is attached by a rope or they hold hands and they have to lead them. Sometimes just lead them through an area outside or maybe through an obstacle course. And of course, like most team-building exercises, the Sherpa walk is designed to build trust. It's called the trust walk. And if you don't trust the lead, you might just step in a hole or you might run off course, or you might fall down.

And so when you think about this concept of the Sherpa walk, there are definitely connections to our Christian walk as well. In a way we're called to be successful Christians, by allowing God to lead us in a spiritual, you might say Sherpa walk. I mean, do we even realize how difficult it is to trust these days? Doesn't come...that's why these companies do these team building exercises to build the commonality, to build a trust between team members. Because fear is so common these days that it actually has an official designation. Do you know what they call it? Yeah, it has a special designation it's called pistanthrophobia. Yeah, big name, pistanthrophobia the fear of trusting. It's got a big name for really, it's a big problem. It is a big problem. Not trusting where does that get you? Well, I could get hurt if I trust them. I could be betrayed if I trust them. But if you don't develop trust, where is that going to lead you? Well, you'll be isolated, you'll be left alone. I'm sure it will be a difficult situation.

And when you begin to think about that in comparison to our spiritual walk, trust may be the most important factor in our relationship with God, and really understanding Him and knowing Him. Knowing His will for my life, knowing my purpose, how to grow in grace and knowledge, how to draw closer to God, how to be a faithful steward. All of these things are tied into trust. Even preparing for the kingdom of God has a connection to building trust and a close relationship with God. And so preteen camp got me thinking about that very thing. How can we grow in a much closer relationship with God and truly trust him? How can we be trusting on this calling that God's given us to walk the Sherpa trust walk of life? Because that's in a way, our calling.

So as we think about that this afternoon, begin to think about what exactly is trust after all. Now, I didn't bring the dictionary definition or anything like that, but how would you define trust? I did hear one definition it said that trust is believing the dentist when he says it's not going to hurt. Okay, that is one form of trust. But let's think about that for a minute. How can I trust God? Well, here's how, number one, be totally committed to God both in your heart and your mind. That sounds kind of easy but can I be totally committed to God in heart and mind? If I'm going to develop a close relationship with Him, I have to totally trust Him.

There's a beautiful proverb that really exemplifies this over in Proverbs 3. We're going to take a look at this whole section of Scripture as we kind of kick off this idea of how I can grow and develop a true relationship of deep trust and honesty with God. If God's called me to the spiritual Sherpa walk, then I've got to trust Him because I'm in a sense, blindfolded when I face this world and the way I should walk in this world, but God knows. God knows the way. He's the one we have to trust as He leads us through this life. So Proverbs 3 discusses that very fact. Notice what it says here in Proverbs Chapter 3, right at the very beginning of the chapter.

Proverbs 3:1 Here speaking on God's behalf, “My son, don't forget my law, but let your heart keep my commands.”

One translation says “Obey them, obey my commands completely, completely thoroughly.” So we've got to trust God from the bottom of our hearts and that's kind of difficult sometimes because it feels like I'm blindfolded in life. Sometimes I can't see clearly, I can't figure it out myself. It's not possible so I have to trust the one that does have it figured out. And so in a way, here's Solomon talking about this relationship we're supposed to have with God, and it begins with total trust and obedience. He talks about complete, thorough obedience. In fact, notice the result of that.

Proverbs 3:2-3 He says, “Don't forget, keep my commands. For length of days and long life and peace, they will add to you.” So interesting connection here between not forgetting and obedience, and then the results. Verse 3 says, “Let not mercy and truth forsake you bind them around your neck, write them on the tablets of your heart.”

And so he reminds us, that's where it needs to be. We need to obey God, not just logically, but out of our heart as well with everything we are. So we have an interesting connection between love and loyalty connected to this trust, taking first place in our life. That's got to be number one that we know God, and we believe Him, we're going to obey Him and we're going to trust Him. So the challenge then is to listen to God in everything we do. Now some of the Sherpa's walks that you might do, they'll actually allow the leader to talk. And so he's the only one that...or she is the only one that's not blindfolded. And as they've got this string of campers behind them, “Okay, everyone take a step to the left, no, the first three take a step to the right follow along.” And they can call out instructions as they go. So they can go in the right direction and avoid all the obstacles that might be presented before them.

Now, in a way, God's the one that calls out to us and gives us the way we should walk. And He calls it and tells it the best way, the best way to keep us safe. And so we have to step out of this and recognize, I can't see where to walk, I'm not sure the track I should follow. And we certainly can't assume that we know what's best. And so he reminds us, verse 4 when we follow those instructions.

Proverbs 3:4 He says, “So find favor and high esteem in the sight of God and man.”

In other words, God's going to like us. I mean, He already loves us, we're going to follow Him. People will like us, they're going to esteem us, there's going to be benefits from following God's way. And in fact, then he follows that with probably a pretty familiar passage in scripture.

Proverbs 3:5-6 It says, “Trust in the Lord, with all your heart, lean, not to your own understanding, in all your ways acknowledge Him, He'll direct your paths.”

So God is the ultimate sherpa when we come to this life, He knows the best way to go. Do we always let Him lead us? Says He's going to clear the path, He's going to help us avoid the obstacles, He's going to guide us. So he says, “Don't be wise in your own eyes.” And it's always interesting listening to the campers because some of them just can't keep quiet. They might be blindfolded, but “Oh, I'm not sure we're going in the right way. Are you sure? I think we're in trouble. Oh, no. Are we going…” and they can't help themselves to verbalize their worry and their fear. And the leader is going to say, “No, this is the best way just listen to me, let me guide you.”

Proverbs 3:7-10 And so ultimately as it says here, okay, “Don't be wise in your own eyes, fear the Lord depart from evil, it will be health to your flesh and strength to your bones.” Honor the leader, follow the leader. So he says in verse 9, “Honor the Lord with your possessions and the first fruits of your increase, your barns will be filled with plenty, your vats will overflow with new wine.”

And I believe that's not just talking about physical blessings, but ultimately, the more important spiritual ones. We honor God in everything we do, in everything that we own. We give Him the first, we give Him the best, and He will supply our need. And most importantly, the need to be close to Him, to have a relationship with Him, to be led by Him. And so when we look at Proverbs Chapter 3, there's some powerful observations we make here as we consider this total commitment. In order to trust God, it takes a total commitment. If you notice these things, did you see what it's telling us about these different sayings?

When we look through this verse, what jumps out at you? Well, hopefully, you notice all of these sayings are all-inclusive, they're all-inclusive there's no exceptions. Did God say, well, partially obey me? Or just give it your best shot? No, He doesn't say, well follow some of my instructions. No, He didn't say well, with most of your heart, you know, put a little bit into it. No, if we're to trust, we see it's not as sometimes, kind of, once in a while kind of thing. He's the leader. Do we really commit to follow and trust Him? And so we see these words that jump out to my eye as I look down here, he says, “Don't forget,” He says “Keep,” He says all. He says “Bind them, acknowledge all your heart, all your ways, acknowledge, honor,” all-inclusive. Don't see any exceptions here.

So, it's sure a reminder that it's a total commitment that God wants for us so we can have a close relationship with Him. And in fact, as we look down these verses, is another thing that jumps out at me. These statements that God makes precede a promise. They come before a promise, you could think of it as a if/then. If you do these things, then here's the result. And so each one of these commands is followed by a promise, the promise follows that. So God says, if we do these things, there's going to be some amazing, wonderful results. And we're not just talking about physical things, spiritual things are much more important. And so as we look at these different commands and the promises, and the results, there's also something else that's important. Did you notice how they're conditional?

If you do this, then these things will, there's a contingent aspect to this. We do our part, God promises to do His part. And so it starts with trust, having a total commitment to God in our heart in our mind. And then we got to ask ourselves when we look at these statements, well, do I have that kind of confidence in God? You know, how does it work? Do I truly trust God? And of course, the answer is usually well, yeah, of course, I do. Of course, I do. Well, do I trust and obey Him completely? Is He really my source? Will He really supply my need? Do I trust Him in everything? Or maybe we're like some of those pre-teeners that we had at camp.

So we were doing one exercise with team challenge and of course, you give them different instructions, and you say, “Okay, this is what we're going to do.” And they go, “Oh, no, that's going to be hard.” “Well, now we're going to put on blindfolds.” “Oh, we can't do it. And it's not going to be possible.” And they overreact and they're very emotional. It's so much fun to spring something new on them that they're not ready for. But then you get into the exercise and you...in one exercise, we had a leader giving directions to their partner who was blindfolded. Now, some of them are very trusting and they listen to the one giving them instructions, and they follow right along. But, you know, a lot of them just couldn't do it. A lot of them once you get them blindfolded and they start through the obstacles, you know what they're doing? They keep peeking all the time. Or the really sneaky ones do this. Okay, and they're cheating.

And I think it's such a reminder do we do that as adults? I mean, when we think about do I trust God in some things, but then other things, I think I better be careful I'm not quite sure I better keep my own eyes open. And maybe we trust Him in big things, but what about the small things? Or maybe vice versa do we trust Him in the small things, but the big things, I better keep a handle on this one God. And so it is an incredible, difficult question to answer, especially when you put it in the context of the world we live in. I ran across the Edelman Trust Barometer. You may never have heard of the Edelman company, but they do an annual survey for businesses that focuses on trust, and they do this every year. This year's results were kind of interesting. I mean, this company has done it for decades. And they study the influence of trust all across society, to help businesses succeed is really their purpose.

One of the things they found in this year's 2022 survey was the default emotion for most individuals. If you had to name the default emotion for most people today, do you know what it is? Their survey found it is distrust, not trusting anybody. So 6 out of 10 people, that was their go-to tendency not to trust anything or anyone for that matter. In fact, it was interesting they found that 64% of the people that they surveyed said they are incapable of having a constructive conversation or debate with someone that they disagree with. You imagine that? Not that we could agree to disagree in any way, they said they were incapable of talking to someone else that they disagree about something on, can't even talk about it. And I think if we look around the world today, is that the way that it is? I think in so many instances, that is the case. And so, Satan is so sly that in the society we live in, that goes to distrust, that goes to questions, that can't even have a civil conversation with other people that can influence us. And we have to be so careful that that doesn't influence our perspective on God, and His Word. And so we have to overcome the challenge of the default emotion in our world today and trust God and trust His Word, and realize it is possible. With God's help, we can be totally committed to Him in both heart and mind. But sometimes it's going to feel like we're wearing a blindfold and we're not sure where we're going. But we always have to recognize God is in charge, and He promises to lead us. So trusting God is definitely a key to our spiritual success.

So how do you develop that relationship? That deep, trusting relationship with God? Yes, it takes total commitment. But secondly, we can realize God's care is constant. God constantly watches out for our best interest. Now, you might say, wait a second, sometimes it doesn't seem like God's very close. Sometimes I feel like God's a million miles away. I'm not sure about that because it feels like maybe God's forgotten about me, He's not really...is He really that involved in my life? I wonder sometimes if that's the case. And we can be tempted to feel that way. Maybe we all feel that way from time to time. Maybe we can truly relate to what David said in Psalm 22.

Psalm 22:1 He said, “God, My God, why have you forsaken me?”

Those were David's words, originally, He deeply felt where are you, God? I'm going through this difficulty and it feels like you've given up on me, that you've deserted me, that you're far away. And it's easy in those situations to wonder if God really, truly does care. Or maybe He only cares part of the time. Doesn't He hear me? Doesn't He feel my pain? Doesn't He know I'm just groaning, yearning for Him, and I can't seem to find Him? We go to that default emotion that Edelman talked about.

And that's the challenge. The challenge is, will we believe those feelings? Because we really feel it, we really sense that. But will we go with the feeling and the emotion, or do we default to the Word of God? I mean, we certainly feel that way and those are strong emotions, those are strong feelings, but are feelings the measure of truth? You see, we've got to remind ourselves feelings aren't always truth they're not really truthful. The Word of God is truth, all right.

John 17:17 Christ said that very clearly, “Thy word is truth.”

Not the things I feel. So if we feel God isn't near, or He's gone off somewhere, He's not really understanding my issues. We have to come back and recognize His word, remember His promises. Remember what He has said to each and every one of us because He reassures us. If we go to His word and don't default to the feelings or the distrust, that His care is absolutely constant.

The Book of Isaiah is a great example of that very fact. Can you turn with me over to Isaiah Chapter 43? I'm sorry, 41. Notice Isaiah Chapter 41. He says it a number of times here just as a tremendous admonishment, as a great reminder that on this spiritual Sherpa walk, God hasn't gone off and left us blindfolded. Yeah, life may be uncertain at times, but here He gives us a very specific reminder. In fact, notice how specific this is. If we look at Isaiah 41:10. Isaiah 41:10 here, Isaiah is really quoting God, he's quoting God. So we could think of this as God's speaking to us. Here's God speaking and notice what He says in verse 10.

Isaiah 41:10-13 He says, “Fear not, for I am with you.” But I feel that you're not. “Fear not, I'm with you. Don't be dismayed. I am your God, I will strengthen you. Yes, I'll help you I'll uphold you with my righteous right hand.” And if you don't believe that, I'll say it again. Go down to verse 13. “I'm the Lord, I'll hold your right hand saying fear not, I will help you.”

Have you ever thought of it that way? When it seems like God might be missing, He's not involved, He's gone off. No, God tells us wait a second I'm not going to just send an angel to help you, He says I'm going to hold your hand. I'll hold your hand. I'll hold your hand in my hand. And so He gives us this beautiful figurative expression to show how close He is to us. We might not know that He's right there because, after all, I'm blindfolded I don't know the way to walk. I don't know how to direct my steps, but my Creator does and He's right there leading the way.

In fact, oftentimes on Sherpa walks, you hold each other's hands as you go through the obstacles. And here's God holding our hand and He says trust me, trust me, I'm going to help you, no matter what because I'm caring for you continually. And He's personally there to strengthen us, to guide us, to support us, to encourage us He's going to uphold us. And so we don't have to worry, we don't have to be dismayed, we don't have to be discouraged, we don't have to be downhearted, because He says we can trust Him because He promised it. He promises it. So we don't have to doubt even when it seems like He might not be caring for us. He says He is there no matter what. So we don't have to ponder that question are you really there? Are you really there?

I suppose in a way, it kind of reminded me of a story I heard about a little boy who was walking on the beach. You may have heard the story. This little boy is walking, and here's this lady sitting on the beach, and he walks up to this lady and he says to this woman, “Are you a Christian?” And the lady says, “Well, yes, I am.” And the little boy then wasn't quite satisfied with that answer so he said, “Well, do you read your Bible every day?” And the lady said, “Well, in fact, I do read my Bible every day.” The little boy then said, “Well, Oh, do you pray a lot?” And the lady said, “Yes, I do.” And the little boy said, “Well, good would you hold my quarter while I go swimming?”

You see I'm not going to trust you unless I get the right answers that I want. We don't going to be like that little boy and question...well, what would God's answers be? He'd say well, of course, I'm with you, Of course, I'm caring for you. Of course, I've got your best interests at heart. Of course, I am there. God's answer is yes. It is yes even when it feels different to us. That's when we go to God's Word and we recognize fear not. He is with me. I don't have to be downhearted and discouraged. Don't be dismayed because He's here, He's there all the time. In fact, if you flip over a page or so to Isaiah 43 here He reminds us that even in those challenges He's there, He's there watching out for us. In fact, Isaiah 43 at the end of verse 1 He says it again.

Isaiah 43:1-2 “Fear not.” Because that lack of trust and worry and doubt, yes, tends to be our go-to emotion. He says, “I've redeemed you, I've called you by your name, you are mine.” But if we didn't trust God, He says, you belong to me we take care of things that belong to us. He says in verse two “When you pass through the waters, I'll be with you, and through rivers, they'll not overflow you.” Yeah, and sometimes it might be a little puddle that's the obstacle. But sometimes life brings a river, a current against us. But God says you're going to be able to pass through that. The rivers of hardship and uncertainty I'll be with you. Then he says, “The fire is not going to burn you. You're not even going to be singed, you're not going to be scorched.”

And so God reminds us of...and sometimes we look at that we might say, it's easier said than done. Can I have that kind of trust in God? Can I recognize how much He really cares for me? Do you trust some things in life? Well, anybody ever been to a doctor? You go into the doctor's office what do they usually have on the wall? All their diplomas and certificates, they're there and you feel really good about that. But have any of you ever called the school, the medical school they went to, and say, what was my doctor's grades? C minus. Well, no, we don't call to verify whether even that certificate is real, we just buy into it. And of course, what happens? The doctor then looks at you and they give you a diagnosis, and we believe it.

And then they scribble on a piece of paper that I can't read their writing. And I believe they're giving me a prescription for something that's going to help me but I don't know what it says. And I bring it to the pharmacist who I don't know and I expect him to put the right pills into the bottle that that scribbling says he's supposed to do. And then I go home, and I take those pills thinking I'm going to get better. That's trust. That's trust. So if we can trust in something like that, trust in some physical thing, how much more should we trust in our Creator God, who made us? He says we can trust Him and His care is constant it's not sporadic, it's not occasional, it's not partial, it is continuous.

And if you think of it, God doesn't let anything touch us. Nothing can touch us. nothing can come in our lives, without first passing by God. And that's the kind of God we have. And so we can trust Him, it's the key. It's the key to a deep relationship with God. But can I really trust Him? On this spiritual Sherpa walk of life, God tells us here's how you can trust me, here's a third way you can trust me. Not only do you realize it's a complete commitment, recognize my care is constant, but we have a generous God. God is generous. And if we want to recognize how much we can trust Him, recognize how much He gives us, how much He watches out for us. And we're not just talking about physical things.

Great example of this Psalm 136. Turn over to Psalm 136 with me. A very familiar Psalm. Psalm 136. We sing this song quite often at services. You recognize Psalm 136? “Give thanks to God, for He is good. He who alone do with great works, his kindness shall always endure.” That wasn't very good. “His kindness shall always endure.”

[Everybody] His mercy never fails.

[Steve Myers] All right, His mercy. That's the Psalm that is it. Psalm 136 it's a song that we sing. And it points out the fact His mercy never fails. Or here in my King James.

Psalm 136:1-9, 23 It says “His love endures forever.” And notice how generous our great God is. “He's good. He is the God of gods. There is no other God before our awesome God. He is the Lord of lords. He's done great wonders. His understanding He made the heavens.” He made everything. Can we trust Him? Yes. “His love endures forever.” It says “He made great lights. He made the sun, the moon, the stars.” Verse 23, “He remembers us.” Even though He is so awesome and amazing and did these great things, He's concerned about me. He's concerned about every one of us. It says “He's rescued us. He gives food to all the creation, all the creatures.”

And so we recognize the awesome things that He has done. And even that last statement, “His mercy never fails, His mercy endures forever.” You look up various translations of that last phrase that it repeats, verse after verse after verse after verse, just to remind us how generous and great and awesome our God is. “His steadfast love endures forever.” “Yes, His love never quits.” One translation says. “His everlasting love endures forever.” One translation says, “His faithful love.” Another says, “His grace continues forever.” Another says “His loyalty to us never ends.” Another says “His love never quits, never fails.”

And what a great reminder, we have a trustworthy God that gives us great things. And not only has He been generous, not only is He generous, but what this reminds us of, is that we can count on Him to continue to be that way. He'll continue to be that way because that is part of His character. And we can trust Him because He promises to be a great, generous, loving God. And that will never, never, ever fail. So can we trust this awesome being who created us? He says, yes, you can. We can develop a close relationship with Him because He's called us to this life. And even though it may seem like we are blindfolded, our ultimate spiritual Sherpa, God Himself, is leading us so He says we can trust Him.

And here's how He gives us another way, a fourth way. We can know that we can trust Him, even in adversity, even when we're going through difficult situations, even though we're going through terrible trials, when it seems like wait a second, shouldn't everything be going well? Well, you know, sometimes on those Sherpa walks at camp, not everybody follows directions exactly right and they might step into a hole out there in the field, or they might not follow right along and they get into trouble. Yeah, we set up one little team challenge game we called it Minefield. And we put all these different obstacles out on this course. And of course, we paired up the groups so each had a partner, one could see the other was blindfolded. Of course, it wasn't that he led them by the hand, the one could give directions from the sidelines and had to say “Step right, step left.”

Of course, some of those little ones “Which way is left?” “I'm not sure which way.” “Follow my voice step this way. No, step that way.” Probably the funniest one was “Jump.” It's like “How far?” Or “Take a giant step.” Amazing when you see that. And here, you see even when you're about to run into trouble God's there. God's there. Now, of course, we made it a little bit more interesting before we put the blindfolds they could look out on the course and see all the obstacles. Then we made it even more difficult we put out mousetraps of course then I had to tease them “Okay, everybody take your shoes off.”

No, we didn't make them take their shoes off. But just to recognize you've got to trust this individual. Even though it looks like there's no way you're going to make it across. No way you will make it through the trials, the difficulties, the adversity. But when we listen to God...take a look at Psalm 56. Psalm 56 is like David going through a minefield. Here's King David and he wrote this song after the Philistines captured him. Because that seemed to be the perennial, you know, challengers yeah, he not only fought Goliath and the Philistines they kept turning up. Here in Psalm 56 notice David's perspective. Notice what he says right here at the very beginning of Psalm 56.

Psalm 56:1-4 He says “Be merciful to me, O God, for man would swallow me up. These Philistines are after me fighting all day they oppress me.” Yeah, this was the challenge. And life feels like that sometimes there are so many mines in front of me so many things that could blow up, there's no way I can make it. He says, “My enemies would hound me all day. For there are many who fight against me, O Most High.” But in adversity, where did David turn? When faced with difficulties, the things that could explode in his face. “Whenever I'm afraid,” what's my go-to emotion? Not distrust. Whenever I'm afraid David's default was, "I will trust in you. In God, I will praise His Word, in God, I've put my trust. I will not fear. What can flesh do to me?”

Well, it could kill me but I'm in God's hands God's going to watch out for me. And so here David is telling us, we have a responsibility to develop that kind of trusting relationship with God. That no matter the circumstances, we're going to look to Him. And that's a challenge for all of us because can I really trust, the one who's giving me directions? The preteeners had a little bit of a challenge with that for sure. But we've got the perfect Sherpa, we've got the perfect one leading but all too often we think we might know better. Sometimes we may step away from God's directions and he says, no, follow me, follow me. Trust me, even though you can't see the way to go, you can trust me. Because even the things that you can't fix when they're in my hands, they will work out for good.

All things will work together for good when we put our trust, our love in God. Even when we can't reason through it, even when we can't figure out the solution He says trust me. And so yeah, sometimes we take control ourselves, and we move over to try to do God's part. And that's where we've got to catch ourselves. We can't say, well, God, I'm not sure you really understand my problems. Do you really understand the issues I'm having in my marriage? Can I actually put my relationship with my spouse in your hands? Do you really understand? That's when we've got to put it in God's hands.

God, can I really surrender my finances to you? Are you going to watch over me? I don't know if you understand all the bills and the challenges that I face. Do you understand how bad my finances are? How could I ever get out of this? Well, He says trust me. But if I step out in faith, do you really understand all the obstacles I'm facing? Well, I think that's where we need to be a little bit like those preteen campers because Christ said, be like a little child, and the simplicity is having that willingness to say yes to God. Yes, I believe you. Yes, I trust you. Yes, I don't understand how this is going to work out, but I am in your hands. And when I don't have the answers, I know through these difficulties I can try to be like David.

And when I'm afraid I'm going to trust you. When I'm facing the difficulties and the minefield is in front of me, I'm putting my faith and trust in you. I believe you God, help my unbelief. Help me, God. And even when I don't understand, I'm going to trust you. And we can grow in a much deeper, trusting relationship with God when we do trust him even in the most of difficult times. And I think that can help us in another way to develop a true trusting relationship with God. How do we do that? Here's how we go to the source. Fifth thing, go to the source. Go to the source. You know, when we're feeling blessed when things are going great, when life's good, don't trust those blessings, don't trust well, everything's great it's going to stay this way forever. Well it might, but then again, it might not. Is that the basis of our relationship? Is that the basis of our trust?

We could get a little out of sorts if that's the case, we could become self-reliant or self-dependent. Instead, go to the source, recognize the source. We don't going to trust the outcome or the circumstances. You know, when we trust our job, we've placed our trust in the wrong hands. We've got to trust God, who is the provider of that job. If we trust our health, instead of trusting God who is the provider of health, we're going to get things all reversed. Sometimes we even count on ourself. We trust our own intellect, well, I'll figure this all out. Well, wait a second, if we go to the source, we trust God, who gives us the power to think and to reason. That's where our trust should really be trusting the source, and that is so important. But sometimes we get a little out of order.

Proverbs Chapter 18 is such a great reminder of that very fact. Let's notice what the Proverbs tell us. We have words of wisdom here in chapter 18:10. Because oftentimes, in the Proverbs we're shown, here's the way to be, here's what your perspective should be. But if it's not, here's what's going to happen. And we have these two contrary concepts that are going on. And here in Proverbs 18, we see that very thing. Here's one way you could go and it's going to go well. Here's another way you could go, and it's going to lead to trouble. One is trust, one is distrust. Let's notice what it says.

Proverbs 18:10 It says, “The name of the Lord is a strong tower, the righteous run to it and are safe. But on the other hand, the rich man's wealth is his strong city, and like a high wall, his own esteem.”

Well, other translations say “A rich man's wealth is imagined to be an unscalable wall.” So we really have two things that we trust, and either we trust in God or we trust in ourselves. Those who trust in God they put their constant faith in Him. They immediately continually go to Him. They're not just kind of casually...no, they run to God, they can't wait to be in His presence. But you make possessions your city, your wall, you think you're untouchable because you've built this wall around you. You say, wait a second. That's right when Satan is ready and able to convince you, “Hey, you've got it made, you're untouchable.” And so when we look at this, we're reminded all right, do you have an unscalable wall or is your trust truly in the strong tower? That true strong spiritual tower? That strong spiritual Sherpa?

What's leading you? Where are you guided? Who leads you? Is it your own wall that you think is protecting you? Is it your job? Is it your education? Is it your salary? It's my retirement account, I'm going to be all right. Or maybe it's my youth, I'm young, I'm energetic, I can do these things. And sometimes we can get off track putting our trust there. Our position, maybe even our health. You see those things get us off track because we don't recognize the true source of all of those blessings because the source is God. And if we allow it, God will be that source of constant continual need. He'll fulfill every need for us. And so as we consider that, we make God the source and we recognize Him as the source no matter what, no matter what.

And when we put all of these various things together, I think we recognize that trust and faith go hand in hand. Because an absolute unshakable trust in God, and in God's promises, really is the definition of what faith is all about it's absolute trust and commitment to God. And that builds that beautiful relationship that God wants to have with each and every one of us. There's a beautiful summary passage of this back in the Psalms. Psalm 37:23. Notice what it reminds us of. In a way, it's summarizing these five how to have that trusting deep relationship with God. It's a reminder of how we can build not just a team but build a right relationship with the one true God, Psalm 37 notice verse 23. I'm sure it'll sound very familiar. Imagine this walk that God has called us to as He directs us here in Psalm 37:23.

Psalm 37:23-24 It says “The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord. He delights in his way. Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down; for the LORD upholds him with His hand.”

And this is such a beautiful statement. When we trust God, He's going to direct our steps. He is the ultimate spiritual Sherpa. He's going to guide us no matter what, and we follow the guide, we can follow Him. And sometimes yeah, we're going to mess up, we're going to go off track, we're going to step on an obstacle because we're not always that tuned to Him as we should be. Well, does He give up on us? Does He say, well, that's what you get? No, He helps us up. It says, “He'll uphold us.” He's personally involved in our life. And so like those team challenge games, He reminds us that trusting Him is the key. And that yeah, life is kind of like a Sherpa trust walk. And He wants us to recognize we can have a total commitment to Him, we can trust He's going to help that commitment. He's going to help us to trust Him.

And He shows us that if we recognize His care, never fades it never goes away, that He's continually there and constantly caring for us, that we can put that trust in Him. And that He is generous He doesn't withhold. Even when we're not perfect in our steps, when we're not perfectly following Him He still is a generous God who loves us and wants the best for us.

And even when we step on a mine, even though those obstacles we're faced with in our life, He says, you can still trust me, I'm going to bring you through these things. I'm going to watch over you because you can trust the source of all that is good. And so what a great reminder for all of us that we have a loving, caring God. So no matter what the case, you can face any circumstance with confidence and hope because it's not your strength, it's not your wisdom, it's not your energy, it's not your power that brings the victory. Success comes because of God's ability. And you can tap into an irresistible force that no one and nothing can successfully oppose when we place our trust in the one true God.

A particular moment, that's a turning point. It's a moment in time that's a decisive one. It's a time that we find ourselves at the crossroads. If you take a look at what's going on around the world today. Of course, we've got Covid-19, but what's it doing to the economy? And this is supposed to be an election year. Certainly, uncertainty is all around us. So, would you say this is such a time, such a time we live in, certainly our Ambassador Bible College students have come to a crossroads in their life. And in fact, for all of us, the time is now. The time is now. And when we look at our college year this year, it's been a unique year. To say these past few months have been unique it's probably a little bit of an understatement. Certainly for our students, our instructors, I've had the privilege and the honor to share the word of life with you.

And of course, for our congregation, what an honor that is. Now we find ourselves where the page is beginning to turn. What has passed has passed, and now the future is what lies ahead. And for all of us, no matter what age, no matter our circumstances, we are at a strategic moment in time. Let's think about that for just a moment. Consider the fact that we've been given, I would say, the opportunity of a lifetime. The opportunity of a lifetime. This is our time, this is the time, a remarkable time, a significant time, an exceptional time. I mean, isn't it fair to say that we've been called for such a time as this? The time is now. The time is now. So, as we begin to consider that, I want you to think about your unique calling, your unique calling because God has placed you.

In fact, He's placed every one of us right where you are to fulfill His great calling. God's brought us to this moment. I think a passage that exemplifies that is one that's found over in 1 Corinthians 12, 1 Corinthians 12. And ABC students, what is the theme of 1 Corinthians 12? Spiritual gifts, spiritual gifts. And when we look to what 1 Corinthians 12:4 says.

1 Corinthians 12:4 It says, "there are a diversity of gifts, but the same Spirit."

There are differences of ministries, differences of serving, but the same Lord. There's diversities, differences in activities, but the same God who works all and all. Now take a special note of verse seven.

1 Corinthians 12:7-11 It says, "But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all." And then it begins to list these manifestations of the Spirit. Notice them really quickly. It says, "one is given the word of wisdom through the Spirit, one the word of knowledge through the same Spirit, another faith by the same Spirit, another gifts of healings by the same Spirit, another working of miracles, gifts of prophecy, healings, discerning spirits, different kinds of languages, all kinds of interpretation of those languages. But the same Spirit that's working all of these things."

Isn't that significant? You think about such a time as this, God has placed us where we are to fulfill His calling, His unique calling. And what can we recognize from this passage? We are a gifted people. Have you ever thought of it in that way? God has given us gifts. And this is where God begins in a way, we're a gifted people. He starts by equipping His people with gifts.

Students, you have gifts. Every one of us as members of God's church, the body of Christ is gifted. And that's basic, that's foundational, that is absolutely fundamental. And God wants us to begin our thinking from that point of view. So, how can we best utilize those gifts to function within the body of Christ? Because there's some specific things in this verse that are so critical as we consider our unique calling. God reminds us to each is given a manifestation of the Spirit. Every one of us, verse 7 says, each of us, every one of us. In other words, who's left out? Nobody, none of us can ever say that we were left out. You have one, at least one, but probably many more because God has this amazing variety of combinations of gifts that He gives. And He chooses that combination to suit you. God does that very thing to suit you, and your personality, and your way of thinking.

And He puts you right where He wants you to be so that you can utilize and use that gift. And that's not just a church thing, that's not just a congregational thing, but out there, out there in the world, He wants you to use those spiritual gifts that He's given to you. And when it comes to the work of the church, don't for a second think that you are left out, because that's not the case at all. Too oftentimes we may think, well, the home office does the work of God. Well, while that's true, we've been called for such a time as this. They don't do it all. Every one of us has a part to play, especially when you consider this great calling that we have, this unique calling, this calling to fulfill the work of God that God's called us to.

What about playing a part in healing the brokenhearted? You can do that. What about playing your part in opening the doors to the captives? You can do that. Certainly, that's a part of our calling. Setting free those who are bound in the prisons of the thinking of this world. How about those that are imprisoned by doubt and fear and anxiety? We can help, we can serve. Those that are caught up in selfishness, those that are in problems and severe depression, can we help, and help open the doors to liberty and freedom and truth? It's possible through the power of God's Spirit we can set a powerful example. Every one of us can set that kind of an example. And I believe God has called us to do just that because it's going to take every single one of you, every single one of us to do our share.

That's biblical, that's godly, that's our calling. And so, what we find here at 1 Corinthians 12, we've been given at least one gift to serve that very purpose. So, what is your gift? What has God given to you to fulfill that great calling? Because that unique calling is to have that manifestation of the Spirit. I don't get caught up in those spirituality and theological types of things when you hear those fancy words like manifestation. You see this manifestation is not talking about my natural talents, my natural abilities, this is talking about a spiritual function within the body of Christ. It's a spiritual thing. The gifts of the Spirit are not just our normal natural abilities, it's not just about that. Maybe we could say then just my ability to sing, or my ability to lead, or an ability to be good at athletics, or an ability to paint, or to run, or whatever it might be. That's not what this is getting at.

This is telling us spiritual gifts are given. And in fact, I believe these spiritual gifts are given only to God's people. And each person is given an ability, a spiritual gift that helps us to show this unique calling, to demonstrate who God really is. Because that manifestation is really that, it's evidence, it's a demonstration of what God's all about. And so these abilities function within the realm of spirituality. And we all have a contribution to give, every single one of us. And so, we're told those gifts that every one of us have been given are to profit all, they're to prophet all. So, we have a calling to absolutely serve. We must serve others. We've been given these gifts to evidence and demonstrate the fact that we are God's people, to build up others, to edify others, to really become servants of the living God.

And so, we're going to have to give those gifts, and show those gifts, and shine those gifts, and demonstrate those gifts because others need them. And in fact, I need them. We all need others to demonstrate and give those gifts because those spiritual gifts are to benefit others. And the result, the result is that life will have a different perspective. We can be brought together in godly love, and have a kind of togetherness and harmony that isn't normal, that isn't natural. And this world then will have a demonstration right before its eyes that we are God's people. And we sing about that all the time. And this whole section of scripture, it's interesting the way that is immediately followed by chapter 13, the love chapter, that great chapter about love that is a demonstration. Because it begins to show us and is evidence of the fact we are at a crossroads.

I mean, have you ever thought of it this way? We are standing on the verge of the kingdom of God. We are right there on the cusp. And at this vital time, we can step back, and we can ask, well, what is it that really pleases God? As His people, as an individual. If God wants a people, He wants you. He wants you to be the kind of person that will stand up for the truth when others doubt. He wants people that will pursue His way no matter what, when others step back, we step forward. God wants a people who will not give up no matter what the times are like, no matter what the difficulties are, no matter what others may say to try to hinder the gospel of Christ, we will stand for the truth. Because we take to heart the fact that we are His workmanship.

We have been saved by grace, Ephesians 2:8 tells us that. But He says then we are His workmanship, and God is working a great work within you, ABC class of 2020. Within all of us, as the body of Christ. And we need to walk in those ways of God, walk in them, demonstrate them, show them because there's no doubt these passages and so many others are showing us that we can be absolutely certain that God has a plan for each and every one of us. And we have to demonstrate that unique calling. I mean, doesn't it make sense that we've been called to accomplish what God would have us to do? And it's something we can't shy away from that, we can't turn our back on that. While others might deny it, others might minimize it, others might even ignore the calling of God. We can recognize the fact that God wants a humble people who will submit to him, who will obey him. And when are we supposed to do that? Now, now is the time.

Now is the time because we are His workmanship. And of course, as we consider those things, I can't help but come to my mind some pretty famous words that were spoken about 2,500 years ago. I know you're familiar with the story, the story of Haman and Mordecai and Esther. If you want to start making your way back to Esther 4. Remember the story, evil Haman advisor to the king of Persia wanted to wipe out all the Jews, he plotted to have all the Jews killed. And someone had to do something about it. Someone had to go to the king and intercede for God's people. Who was going to do that? Well, we know Mordecai encouraged Queen Esther to face the crossroads, to face that moment of truth, to face that time that she had been called for. And if you're there in Esther 4, notice what Mordecai conveys to Esther.

Esther 4:13-14 "Mordecai told them to answer Esther, do not think in your heart that you will escape in the king's palace any more than all the other Jews, for if you remain completely silent at this time, relief and deliverance will arise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father's house will perish. Yet who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this." For such a time as this.

I mean, we're like Esther. Graduates, you are like an Esther. We've come to the crossroads. We've come to that moment. We find ourselves at the cusp, this decisive moment in our life. God has called us to such a time as this. And sometimes we might have those feelings like Esther seems to have had, feelings that, well, how can I do that? I can't do that. I'm not able. I'm inadequate. I'm unworthy. I'm incapable to do that. Well, hang on a moment, who told you it was going to be easy? Who said it was going to be no problem whatsoever? I mean, God certainly didn't tell us that, because no doubt there will be times in all of our lives when our courage, our character, our resolve, even our commitment to God will be put to the test. It's going to happen.

But know this that God has a plan for your life, and He's uniquely prepared each and every one of us to accomplish something special. As we journey toward the kingdom of God, God has an amazing plan in mind, and He's uniquely equipped us with the spiritual gifts to be able to accomplish His will. God has certainly called us to such a time as this, and that time is now. And so, we need to look to God as we face these challenges and look to Him for directions. And in fact, He's going to give us those directions. In fact, if you keep Ephesians 3:20 in mind, I think it's such a powerful admonition to remind us where God stands in all of this. As we face the challenges, as we face the difficulties, graduates as a future that might be unclear. What am I going to do? Am I going to go back to school? Am I going to try to get a job? What's going to happen with all this virus thing that's going on, things look uncertain. But we can take Ephesians 3:20, as we face such a time as this.

Ephesians 3:20-21 Here's what it says, "To Him, who is able to do exceedingly, abundantly, above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.”

I mean, when we are uncertain, when we're facing questions, where we're at that crossroads as we look to the future, I mean here, right here, inexhaustible, boundless fullness of grace and mercy that comes from our all almighty creator. What a blessing. And he says, "You've been given that power, you've been given the means to fulfill your calling."

Isn't that what it tells us at the end of verse 20? According to the power that works in us, we've been given the power of God's Holy Spirit. And so, God wants us to do that will. Like in Esther, He's given us the ability through the power of His Holy Spirit. And we might ask ourselves, well, what power is it that's working in our life? Is it the power of God, or are we getting distracted? Are we getting off? Are we wondering where to go? Well, we got to look to God and recognize that great calling that He's given us to fulfill that great purpose. And it is a unique one. In fact, when we look to 1 Corinthians 1:25, we find that amazing calling that God has given us. And we need to take that to heart, and recognize it, and consider that unique calling that God wants us to fulfill. We're familiar with this passage. In fact, we have a hymn in our songbook that we sing these very words.

1 Corinthians 1:25-27 It's a reminder, it says, "the foolishness of God is wiser than man, and the weakness of God is stronger than man." God has no weakness. And for us, verse 26, "for you see your calling brethren, that not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble are called. But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise," that is our calling. And it goes on, "and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty."

Yeah, mighty according to this world, mighty according to the flesh, but according to the spiritual gifts that God's given us, we are a gifted people. And we can show how foolish the ways of this world are, how the mighty of this world are really nothing when it comes to what's really important to God's way, His will, God's spiritual plan, and His purpose.

And we have to see that calling, we have to recognize that calling, we have to consider that calling, and always keep it in mind and understand what the purpose and plan of God are really all about. Because at one time, most of us were a part of what was going on out there. We were like the disciples. We were fishers of men, well, fishermen. But God turned that all around. You know, some of us might work for the IRS, or tax collectors, or mechanics, or engineers, or students, and whatever that was now we're called to a different life's work. We're called to a spiritual work. And as we fulfill that spiritual calling, we see that calling, we recognize that calling, we've got to be ready to step out in faith because ABC students are at a crossroads. But in a sense, all of us, all of us will find ourselves at a crossroads, at a turning point, at a place where there's more than one direction to go.

And when we're challenged in our thinking, when we face two or more paths, two or more options. When life gives us multiple choices, what do you do? Well, you probably remember that silly phrase that Yogi Berra uttered when it came to that. He said, when you face a fork in the road, take it, take it. Well, we've got to make sure we take the right one, the right path, the right road. In fact, Prophet Jeremiah spoke to that very fact. Turn over to Jeremiah 6:16. Jeremiah 6:16, we find Jeremiah spoke to this very fact to recognize our unique calling and recognize life is often going to present us with two different ways to go. And what are you going to do? How do we know which path to take? Jeremiah 6:16, I'm going to read from the New English Translation, so it may be a little bit different than your New King James, or your King James version.

Jeremiah 6:16 It says, "The Lord said to His people, you are standing at the crossroads, so consider your path." All right, think about this, really determine which way to go. And notice what He says then in advice that He gives us. He says, "Ask where the old reliable paths are, ask where the path is that leads to blessing and follow it. Follow that path. If you do, you will find rest for your souls."

Yeah, that's the way to go. You know God's saying, be like a shrewd spiritual traveler, be a prepared spiritual sojourner. On this highway of life keep a spiritual perspective, because that's the only way you're going to get to your spiritual destination. So, seek that old reliable spiritual path, that's the way to go, that's the way to choose. That's the right way that's going to bring us to the ultimate spiritual end. To the kingdom of God, that's what it is.

You go the wrong way, you make the wrong choice, you get distracted, you don't bother to discern which way to go, he said, "that's trouble." That's going to tear us up and lead us astray. And if we see our calling, we recognize that path. And that involves introspection, that involves really examining ourselves and looking at ourselves and testing ourselves, not thinking too much about ourselves, and taking an inventory of our spiritual gifts, and our strengths, and our weaknesses. And then fearlessly step out in faith to that old path that God is leading us down, that spiritual path, that spiritual path that leads ultimately to the kingdom of God. And so, we have to get beyond ourselves and rely on that power within us. Trust God, be led by His Spirit, because that's really how we are Christian.

A true Christian is the one that is led by the Spirit of God. So, God is telling us on this excursion of life, and we've got to look around, and we've got to examine the potential paths and be aware, just don't take any old path, don't make any old decision, but consider it, discern it. Stop, think about it, and maybe go back to kindergarten for a minute. You remember the old saying they used to say in kindergarten, they would always tell you, if you're going to try to cross the street, stop, look, and listen. Remember those signs in kindergarten that were up? Yeah, we need to do that spiritually speaking. Stop, look, and listen to God, seek His direction, because then we can uniquely fulfill that great calling that we've been given. And of course, if we're going to do that, we need to know the path to take. Which means if we're going to know it, we got to know the directions.

We've got to know this Bible. We need to understand His word. We need to never get far removed from the word of life, the word of God Himself. How critically important is that. We are at that crossroads, and as we face that crossroads, we need to recognize that very fact that we have to know the word. And without understanding, well, where's that going to lead us? I mean, there's so many dangers, so many ways to get off track, so many ways that that we could fall into neglect, fall into disregard, not be focused, end up getting distracted. Now, if you're still there in Ephesians, go over to Ephesians 4:11. It helps us to recognize this very fact. I mean, it's something we've probably read many times over. But when we consider such a time as this, as we consider our amazing unique calling, and when we recognize the fact that God's given us the keys to success. He's given us His word. He's shown us the way. Ephesians is such a great reminder how we have to know this word and put that word into practice. Notice Ephesians 4:11 begins to talk about some of the gifts that God's given for some to be apostles and prophets and evangelists, putting those gifts to work in the church.

Ephesians 4:14-15 “We should no longer be children, tossed to and fro carried about by every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting. But instead, instead he says, speak the truth in love and grow up.”

And so, he's speaking to the power and the benefits of studying and applying the word of God. Because we know this word is instrumental. It's in fact, by applying this word is the only way we can grow in the character of Jesus Christ. And we understand that it's good for doctrine, it's good for reproof, it's good for correction, it's good for instruction in righteousness.

Remember that memory verse students. And we applied this word, and as we read this word, our minds are impacted, and we are renewed as God helps transform us into people who honor Him. And so, He's given us that help now to do that. So, never get distracted from God's word. It just holds countless layer after layer after layer of insight and meaning and depth. So, reread it, and go over it because it can never go stale as we journey on this journey of our spiritual calling. And he'll bring to mind certain phrases, certain words. Remember how that happened during class? Suddenly, oh wait, this verse I've read so many times and wow, now I see something that's a different application, a different meaning, a deeper meaning. You know, God can do that through the power of His word. And as we grow closer to Him, I think the more insight He gives us into who God is.

And as we grow in that relationship, we grow in that relationship, as we understand His character and His perspective, and His way, and how He operates, and that becomes more and more and more the way that that we think, the way that we look at situations, and the way that we look for direction in our life. And so, never set aside the word of God, never take it for granted. Never set it on the shelf and let it collect dust. Don't let it be that way. God's holy word is the word of life, and it will point us and direct us to the right path, to the way that we should take as we continue to search His word and study scripture and examine it, and dedicate ourselves to live this way. God's Holy Bible is the word of truth. It is the right way, and it's the best roadmap to seek the right paths.

And so, class of 2020, you have certainly done well under difficult circumstances. You've accomplished so much despite the situation. Your creativity has been absolutely remarkable, and it's been inspiring to see that. But keep it up. None of us, none of us can afford to step back and take things for granted. When we consider God's word, let's never let it go. For all of us, doesn't matter if we're just becoming alumni, if we've just been baptized, if we've been around the church for 50 or 60 or even more years than that, we can never take it for granted. And so, God's word certainly leads us, and it causes us to face sin. It causes us really to look death in the face, and stand for the truth because we know sin leads to death. But we've been given the words of life, so continue to seek God the Father, and our Savior, Jesus Christ.

And as we do that, God will continue to bless us. Because He has committed to us such wonderful great things, and we have this word, and we have the convicting power of God's Holy Spirit as well. And of course, when we consider that, each and every one of us has to face the fact, and it's a pretty powerful fact when we really think about it. Look at this fact over in Luke 12:48. Do we consider this? It's a parable that Christ is giving, and we're going to skip over the story, and get right to the heart of the meaning. Because as we consider who we are as God's people, and what God has given us, when we consider the spiritual gifts He's given us, when we consider through the power of baptism that He's poured out on us, His Holy Spirit, when we consider He's given us the word of life, we are certainly a gifted people.

Luke 12:48 What a reminder this is. He says, "But he who did not know yet committed things deserving of stripes shall be beaten with a few." But the reminder in this whole story, this whole parable is that next sentence there in verse 48. He says, "For everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required. And to whom much has been committed of him, they will ask the more."

If you read this in the Common English Bible, look back to that passage there. If God has been generous with you, He will expect you to serve Him well, but if He's even been more generous, He'll expect you to serve Him even better. Because if better is possible, then good isn't good enough. I mean think of that, greater gifts means greater expectations. Greater gifts means great expectations, even greater expectations.

So, consider that very fact. We need to move on. Go on from the basics, because it is that time, the time is now to take it to the next spiritual level. And so, we could take this as a challenge for such a time as this, because we are a gifted people. It's a reminder that not only do we have a unique calling, not only have we been given the word of life, but the fact is we're faced with the challenge to choose the right path. And so, we have to choose life. Choose life. God's put us in a position to be able to choose life. To fulfill our unique calling, we must always choose life. If we claim to follow the word of life, we have to choose that word. And as we stand at the crossroads of this life, I mean we know we are at a crossroads. We just have to look, just look at the notifications on your phone, just look at the news, just look at your timeline. We are at a crossroads, our world is at a crossroads, our country is at a crossroads, the economy is at crossroads, our individual lives are at a crossroads. And we have so many choices.

And especially as young people, there are many choices that will come with life. But I suggest to you, for each and every one of us, every day, every day our character will be tested. And in that sense, we stand at a crossroads every single day. The Christian walk of life, our life, the path that we must choose is one that follows the lead of God. And so, as we recognize that very choice, I see I've got a choice between my will, or the world's will, or God's will. And that's a defining moment in our...each and every one of our lives, in our relationship with God as well. Are we going to make that choice? Because that's a choice that Christ said is a part of our calling. It's a part of what it means to be a Christian. Do you remember when Christ spoke about that? Luke 9:23 is one of those passages where Christ just laid it on the line. He laid it on the line so very clearly. Notice what Christ Himself said. In fact, He says this to everyone, He says that to all who were right there. And by extension, He's saying that to us as well.

Luke 9:23 It says, "And then He said to them all, if anyone desires to come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me."

Follow me. Boy, there's a lot of paths we could take, but there's one way, one way to the kingdom of God. And that's it, that's it. So, what will we choose to think? What will we choose to decide? What will really our desire be? Will we choose to have the mind of Christ? Will we choose to follow Him?

Because there's all kinds of choices in life that are out there. A life of distractions, a life of...well, life that we have to be a part of, we have to be a part of our families, we have to be a part of our jobs, our relationships. But are we going to choose the godly path, in all of those things, for such a time as this, for such a time when life deals difficulties, when life deals us discouragement? Well for such a time, it's a time for His thoughts. Ask and follow His path. Even for such a time as this when we're suffering, the time is now to meet suffering head-on with faith. That's His word, His way, we can trust God, we can trust in His promises and His word. And then the character of Christ is even more evident, and it's built in our life for such a time. For such a time we may be just kind of sitting around, we're bored. Well, some of us have been that way over the last couple weeks.

Well, that's the time to choose His way and ask for His excitement, His passion, His enthusiasm, and follow His path. And for such a time as we're tempted, tempted to think the wrong things, to say the wrong things, when we're being catty or pettish or cliquish when those things come, that's the time to turn to the inclusiveness of God, to have a kind of approach that has no guile. And for such a time when we have a tendency to get angry, a time of frustration, for such a time that's the time. Now is the time then to petition God for His attitude, for His mindset, and seek and follow His path. Because those crossroads are an everyday kind of a thing. And when we face those crossroads, I think two words should really be what comes to mind. When we face all of those various situations, those two words, choose life.

Choose life, that's what God would have us to do. And you may remember that memory verse, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart." Proverbs 3:5, 6, don't lean to your own understanding, no, don't do that. In all your ways acknowledge Him. And then what does it say? And He will direct your paths. That's the way to go when we're at the crossroads because now's the time to already have your mind made up. No matter what, I'm going to choose life, that's what I'm going to do. And continue to choose those old paths, those tried and true paths, those paths that are sure spiritually speaking, those paths that are the best spiritual path we could ever take. And we're going to seek that out, and we're going to follow that way that's prescribed by God, His true standard, His true way.

And we're going to move down that way because that road is the only road that ultimately leads to the blessings of Almighty God. If we'll follow that. If we choose that. And it's not a road we can just kind of stroll down or amble along or saunter or wander around, can't do that. God says, "Power down that road, choose to make it your way." Don't walk in weakness. Remember He said, whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might. Because this is an awesome time, an amazing time. For graduation, we'd say it's an auspicious time, it's a promising moment, a time of unbelievable spiritual potential. And so, let's take what God has given to us and utilize that, and never allow ourselves to get sidetracked or digress or deviate, or even begin to doubt because that's when we can seek the path that God has of wisdom and of courage, as we look beyond ourself and our own abilities. And we ask and petition God to strengthen us and help us, and show us how we can serve, and show us a need to fulfill and commit those choices in our life to Him.

Because God wants us to be a passionate people, where we persevere, and we recognize the hope that lies ahead, and we can move forward in love, and be faithful. Because He's promised to bless us, because He loves us so deeply, and He cares so much for us, and He always wants the best for us. And so, Ambassador Bible College graduates of 2020, you've been entrusted with the faith once delivered, you've been entrusted with the truth, the word of life. And so many tremendous opportunities lie before you.

In fact, it lies just ahead of all of us. Every single one of us have tremendous opportunities that are just ahead. And so, by God's grace, by His mercy, let's follow that guidance. Let's completely and thoroughly dedicate ourselves to really become true servants of the Almighty God. Let's truly dedicate ourselves to always seek that path that will lead to the kingdom of God. And let's be dedicated to follow that path, and confidently assuredly move down that road, and power down that road, so that through faith, through confidence in Almighty God, let's boldly take action. For we've been called for such a time as this.