Seizing Divine Opportunities

Introduction Opportunities come and go quickly. Gratitude for past opportunities provided by God. Divine opportunities require careful attention to avoid overlooking them. Opportunities are not always present, so seize them when they arise. The Fleeting Nature of Opportunities Opportunities to be in God’s house should be prioritized. Missed opportunities can lead to regret. Example: Missing a chance to share scripture, pray, or encourage someone. Opportunities given by God are not to be taken for granted. Opportunities for Those in Need Recognizing and admitting needs is crucial. Overcoming stubbornness to acknowledge problems. God is always on time and able to meet needs. Example: Bartimaeus seizing his chance for healing. Bartimaeus cried out to Jesus when he heard he was coming. Bartimaeus didn’t wait, knowing the opportunity might not return. Avoiding indifference and paying attention to God’s work. Opportunities for Business with God Some may be in the presence of God but not engage with the opportunity. Privileges of divine grace are not guaranteed to recur. Excuses and fleshly desires can hinder experiencing God’s opportunities. Example: Woman with the issue of blood. She was determined to touch Jesus’ garment, overcoming obstacles. She seized the opportunity and was healed. Example: Men carrying their friend to Jesus in Capernaum. They were determined to bring their friend to Jesus for healing. They didn’t give up when they couldn’t get in the door. Opportunities for the Unsaved Paul’s ministry examples. Example: Felix trembling but dismissing Paul. Felix had an opportunity to be saved but missed it. Conviction by the Spirit of God is an opportunity to be seized. Example: Agrippa’s near persuasion. Agrippa said, “Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian.” Missing the opportunity leads to eternal consequences. God’s grace appears to all, offering an opportunity for salvation. Desperation for God is essential to avoid missing opportunities. Every gathering presents an opportunity to draw closer to God. Responding Quickly to Opportunities Example: Zacchaeus’s immediate response. Zacchaeus climbed a tree to see Jesus. Jesus called him down, and Zacchaeus joyfully received Him. Zacchaeus embraced the opportunity for salvation. The greatest opportunity is when the Holy Ghost convicts of being lost and provides a way to be saved. Example: Fishermen dropping their nets to follow Jesus. They immediately responded to Jesus’ call. Example: Philip and Nathaniel. Philip told Nathaniel about Jesus. Nathaniel initially doubted but then went to see Jesus. Jesus recognized Nathaniel’s sincerity, leading to his belief. The challenge is to “come and see” and experience God. Paul’s Example of Seizing Opportunities Paul consistently sought opportunities to share the gospel. Paul’s vision of the man in Macedonia. Paul recognized the opportunity and went to Macedonia. Peter’s Example of Overcoming Confusion Peter’s vision and encounter with Cornelius. God taught Peter about Gentiles and His grace toward them. Peter obeyed the Holy Spirit and went to Cornelius’ house. Cornelius and his household were saved and filled with the Holy Ghost. Sometimes overthinking hinders seizing opportunities. Faithful obedience leads to experiencing God’s miracles. Regret over missed opportunities. Conclusion Divine moments require a choice to stand for God. Every gathering is an opportunity to draw closer to God. The Holy Spirit and the bride say, “Come.” Be ready to seize opportunities to share the truth about God’s love and salvation. The chance to do something for God will present itself. Encouragement to be ready and not miss opportunities to share the gospel. Invitation to come forward and do business with God.