The Cause Defined

(Acts 11:21) “The Lord’s hand was with them, and a great number of people believed and turned to the Lord.”   Title of message: The Cause Defined   (Acts 17:26) From one man he made every nation of men, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he determined the times set for them and the exact places where they should live.   A transforming cause is never about you.  It is always about using the resources God has given you to make a positive impact in the lives of others.     Defining the CAUSE within you:   1.    Compassion   “A feeling of deep sympathy and sorrow for another who is stricken by misfortune, accompanied by a strong desire to alleviate the suffering.” -Dictionary.com The cause within you isn’t defined by the situation but by the compassion in your heart. (Matthew 9:36) When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. (2 Corinthians 1:3) Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort,   What have you been moved by lately?   2.    Abilities   “Believe in yourself! Have faith in your abilities! Without a humble but reasonable confidence in your own powers you cannot be successful or happy.” Norman Vincent Peale   (Matthew 25:14) (MSG) “It's also like a man going off on an extended trip. He called his servants together and delegated responsibilities. To one he gave five thousand dollars, to another two thousand, to a third one thousand, depending on their abilities.”   3.    Understanding   (Ephesians 2:10) (NCV) God has made us what we are. In Christ Jesus, God made us to do good works, which God planned in advance for us to live our lives doing.   4.    Spirit that's willing  (Matthew 6:33) But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.   5.    Experiences   (Genesis 50:20) You intended to harm me, but God intended it all for good. He brought me to this position so I could save the lives of many people.