Men for God - Session 4

Gary Stairs
"Long-Haul Men" - Destination

There is nothing special about us that ensures we will arrive at our destination the way God wants us to. The long haul is still in front of us and God wants us to FINISH WELL. God never fails! He can help us to finish well.

Philippians 4:7-

The Peace of God that passes all understanding comes when we think on these things. Meditate on those things. Those are the things that bring the peace of God.

What you have learned, received, heard, seen in me...DO! The doing is where we often get tripped up. Put into practice what you already know.

"For I have learned..." There is a process to becoming what God wants us to be. Paul knew how because he had been through the midnight hours. You have to learn the long-haul. Take heart--God never intended this to be instantaneous.

4:13 - I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

Has Satan won this day, month, year, circumstance, reaction, pride, relationship with your wife, kids, church?
It takes time to become like God wants you to be!

1. Be Thankful - Philippians 1:3-8 (Past) - Be thankful for every remembrance of everyone. (the jail in Philippi, beatings, midnight hour) God help me get to the place where I am thankful for EVERYTHING.

2. Be Prayerful - Philippians 1:9-11 - (Present) - that love will GROW in knowledge and discernment. Not a puppy-love but a DEEP LOVE.

If we don't learn to make sound, biblical choices, we are IN TROUBLE. We need to make excellent choices. All of us are only 1 bad choice away from a ruined life. (Demas has forsaken me having loved this present world) This is why Paul prays. This is why we pray for our kids. This is why we pray for our wives. Don't just pray it...DO IT...LIVE IT.

3. Be Purposeful - Philippians 1:20 (future) - Be biblically focused in our relationships. I don't want to be ashamed before God. I want CHRIST TO BE MAGNIFIED in me.

Allow God to do it in you. Obey His leading.