Mark 13:14-23

Mark 13:14-23We are taught the lawfulness of using means to provide for our own personal safety. We are taught the great privileges of God's elect. "A believer is not to suppose that God will take care of him, and provide for his needs, if he does not make use of means and the common sense which God has given him, as well as other people...To profess to trust God, while we idly sit still and do nothing, is nothing better than fanaticism, and brings religion into contempt."To use all means diligently, and then leave the whole event in the hand of God, is the mark at which a true believer ought to aim.""Rightly used, and fenced with proper cautions, election is a doctrine "full of sweet, pleasant, and unspeakable comfort."""Let us cease to do evil. Let us learn to do well. Let us break off from sin. Let us lay hold on Christ. Let us draw near to God in prayer. So doing, we shall soon know and feel whether we are God's elect. To use the words of an old divine, we must begin at the grammar school of repentance and faith before we go to the university of election."Questions:1. Do we believe that means are not contrary to trust in God? With that said, do we rely on means or on the God who orchestrates what takes place? When situations take place, are we quicker to pray or act?2. Does the doctrine of election bring up thoughts of dislike and controversy, or is it a doctrine ‘full of sweet, pleasant, and unspeakable comfort?3. Does the doctrine of election give you ease or does it motivate you to repent, believe, seek, pray, strive, and labor? Election that brings ease and carelessness is proof of not being elect. Are we, like 2 Peter says, making our calling and election sure?