Setbacks Can’t Derail God’s Purpose, But They Often Upset Our Plans

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I. Be Careful Who You Listen To.

Acts 27:9 (NLT2), 1 John 5:16 (NKJV), Acts 27:10-11 (NKJV)

  • We should warn those headed for trouble if God gives us the
    opportunity and insights!
  • Be very careful who you listen to.
  • Often, the more authority and power you have the harder it is to
    listen to those who might be trying to help you. You tend to think
    you are smarter, more powerful, and richer.
  • We often look for advice from those who have authority and power
    from a worldly view instead of a Godly view.
  • After pride comes the fall. Proverbs 11:2 (NKJV), Proverbs 29:23 (NKJV), Matthew 5:5
    (NCV), Philippians 1:9 (NKJV)

II. We Often Suffer Setbacks and Shipwreck Because of Others.

  • The actions of those around us, will and do affect us! Acts 27:18-21 (CEV)
  • God’s purpose is going to be accomplished in spite of your setbacks
    and shipwrecks.
  • Setbacks are caused many times by decisions you’ve made.
    Sometimes it’s decisions others have made. God’s purpose will be
    accomplished either way, the difference is will you still be a part of it
    or not. Esther 4:13-14 (NLT2)
  • There’s is not a setback to big to keep God’s plan and purpose from
    being accomplished.
  • Only you can keep God from using you in a great and mighty way.
  • Only you can keep yourself from listening to and heeding Godly
    counsel. Acts 27:21b

III. It’s Never Too Late Listen and Go Forward.

  • Acts 27:22-23
    After a setback, if you belong to God and worship him, cheer up and
    be ready to listen.
  • If you claim to belong to God, but don’t worship Him, that’s where
    the trouble comes in. Exodus 34:14 (NKJV)
  • When we don’t worship God, it’s called idolatry.
  • It’s very, very, easy to get out of the habit of worshiping God and
    into the habit of idolatry.
  • As a Christian, an idol is looking to anything other than Jesus to
    meet our Physical, Emotional, financial and Spiritual needs.

How do we know what’s an idol?

  • When you’re in pain… you go to the idol
  • When you have need… you go to the idol
  • When you’re hurt… you go to the idol
  • When you celebrate… you go to the idol

IV. God Has A Message & Mission for You!

  • Don’t be afraid, seek, save, and serve. Acts 27:24-27
  • God sent an angel to Paul. Today, God has sent His word and
    promises.
  • Many times, others will be saved, protected and delivered because of
    our relationship with God. Psalm 37:25 (NKJV), Psalm 25:12-13 (NIV), Psalm 112:1-2
    (TLB), Proverbs 13:22 (CEV)

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