Scripture Reference

1 Chronicles 22: 1-10

Sermon Notes

A message for the new year celebrating some of the accomplishments of 2016 as we look ahead to what’s in store for 2017, with particular focus on the vision process.

Sometimes we desire to do great things for God, but He says, “Not Now.” This happened to King David and rather than moving forward with his vision anyway, sulking about God’s delay, or kicking back to relax, David spent years preparing for the future. This is a valuable lesson for us as a church as we near the end of a productive season of preparation, on the cusp of great things in 2017.

When God Says “Not Now” We Must Prepare

  1. When God Said “Not Now,” David Prepared
    1. David really wanted to build a temple, but God said, “Not Now” and “Not You.” So David prepared.
    2. David prepared resources – gold, silver, bronze, iron, stone, and wood
    3. David prepared people – workers and Solomon (leader)
  2. 2016 – A Year of Preparation for LRBC
    1. We are excited about our future, but God said “Not Now” in 2016. It was a season of healing and preparation.
    2. We have been preparing people and resources – Vision Process, Youth Director, Deacons, Bible Studies, Finances, Unity.
    3. We have strengthened each of the Acts 2: 42 foundations as a church – prayer and care, worship and fellowship, preaching and teaching.
  3. 2017 – Moving Out for God’s Kingdom
    1. Vision update/status
    2. Vision will guide pastor search
    3. More work and change is coming
    4. So be patient and prepare for just a little while longer – pray for vision process, pastor search, God’s Spirit to move, for the congregation to embrace and act on the vision