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Dr. Robert Jeffress | Robert Jeffress - Developing A Servant's Heart (Part 2) | August 20, 2025
- ♪ music ♪
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- From the pulpit of the first baptist church
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- Of dallas, texas,
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- This is "pathway to victory" with dr. robert jeffress.
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- Hi, i am robert jeffress,
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- And welcome again to "pathway to victory."
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- Putting someone else's needs
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- Before our own doesn't come naturally, does it?
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- We have to make an intentional effort
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- To sacrifice our own comfort or convenience
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- For the sake of someone else.
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- Well, jesus is our ultimate model
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- Of servanthood and humility,
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- And following his example brings us one step closer
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- To experiencing a changed life
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- That comes from a transformed heart.
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- My message is titled developing a servant's heart
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- On today's edition of "pathway to victory."
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- ♪ music ♪
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- ♪ many are they increased that troubled me ♪
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- ♪ many are they that rise up against me ♪
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- ♪ many there be which say of my soul ♪
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- ♪ there is no help for him in god ♪
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- ♪ but thou, oh lord ♪
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- ♪ are a shield for me ♪
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- ♪ my glory and the lifter of my head ♪
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- ♪ thou, oh lord ♪
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- ♪ are a shield for me ♪
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- ♪ my glory and the lifter of my head ♪
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- ♪ for thou ♪
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- -♪ oh lord ♪ -♪ are a shield ♪
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- ♪ are a shield ♪
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- ♪ are a shield for me ♪
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- ♪ my glory and the lifter of my head ♪
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- ♪ for thou ♪
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- -♪ oh lord ♪ -♪ are a shield ♪
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- ♪ are a shield ♪
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- ♪ are a shield for me ♪
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- ♪ my glory and the lifter of my head ♪
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- ♪ for thou ♪
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- -♪ oh lord ♪ -♪ are a shield ♪
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- ♪ are a shield ♪
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- ♪ are a shield for me ♪
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- ♪ my glory and the lifter of my head ♪
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- ♪ for thou, oh lord ♪
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- ♪ are a shield for me ♪
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- ♪ my glory ♪
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- ♪ and the lifter of my head ♪
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- ♪ of my head ♪
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- (congregation clapping)
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- Give your heart the encouragement it needs.
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- Start and end each day meditating on god's word
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- With encouragement for the heart of a disciple.
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- This brand new, beautiful,
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- Full-color padded hardcover book by dr. robert jeffress
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- Features 80 breathtaking images of creation
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- Paired with scripture, prayers,
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- And insights you can read in under two minutes.
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- Perfect for your coffee table
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- Or as a thoughtful gift for a loved one.
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- Request encouragement for the heart of a disciple
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- When you give a generous gift to "pathway to victory."
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- ♪ music ♪
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- Many of you know the name rick warren,
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- The pastor of saddleback church in california.
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- Rick has had all kind of success.
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- He's written the bestselling nonfiction book of all time,
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- "the purpose driven life."
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- He's achieved a certain level of wealth,
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- A certain level of influence that few people experience.
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- But i'll never forget what he said
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- To a group of us one time.
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- He said, "god gives each of us either affluence
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- Or influence for one reason:
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- To build god's kingdom,
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- Not our kingdom."
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- Isn't that a great thought?
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- God gives every person either affluence or influence
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- In order to build his kingdom,
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- Not our kingdom.
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- And he's lived by that.
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- And that's exactly the same attitude jesus had.
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- Jesus had everything.
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- He was equal with god,
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- But he was willing to let go of those things
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- In order to meet the greatest need you and i have.
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- Look at verses 6-8 again of philippians 2,
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- "who, although he existed in the form of god,
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- Didn't regard equality with god a thing to be grasped,
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- But he emptied himself,
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- Taking the form of a bond-servant,
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- And being made in the likeness of men.
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- And being found in appearance as a man,
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- He humbled himself by becoming obedient
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- To the point of death,
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- Even death on a cross."
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- Now, it's important to understand
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- What is it that jesus emptied himself of.
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- He didn't empty himself of his godliness,
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- His god-like qualities.
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- You know, i can't empty myself.
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- I can't give up being 5'8" tall or having brown eyes,
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- That's who i am.
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- I can't give those things up,
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- In the same way jesus could not give up
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- Being the son of god.
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- His omniscience, his omnipotence.
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- What he gave up was his rights.
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- He gave up his divine rights
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- And privileges as the son of god.
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- Dorothy sayers, the very gifted writer,
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- Describes what that meant for jesus
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- To willingly give up the comfort,
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- The privileges, the rights of heaven.
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- Listen to this.
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- "for whatever reason god chose to make man as he is,
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- Limited and suffering and subject to sorrows and death.
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- And yet he had the honesty and courage
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- To take his own medicine.
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- Whatever game god is playing with his creation,
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- He has kept his own rules and played fair.
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- God can exact nothing from man
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- That he has not exacted from himself.
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- He has himself gone through the whole of human experiences,
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- From the trivial irritations of family life
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- And the cramping restrictions of hard work
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- And lack of money
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- To the worst horrors of pain and humiliation,
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- Defeat, despair, and even death.
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- When god was a man,
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- He played the man.
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- He was born in poverty and died in disgrace
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- And thought it well worthwhile."
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- Why did he do all that?
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- Why did he voluntarily limit himself
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- To experience what you and i experience every day?
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- Not just so that he could identify with us,
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- But so that he could meet the greatest need we had,
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- Which was the forgiveness of our sins.
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- No, none of us will ever be asked
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- To make that kind of sacrifice,
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- The same kind of not just physical
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- But spiritual sacrifice that christ made.
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- But every day you and i are facing decisions
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- About whether we are willing to give up what belongs to us,
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- To let go of it
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- To meet the legitimate needs of others.
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- Again, parents, are we willing
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- To sacrifice a bigger home or a newer car
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- In order to meet the real needs of our children?
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- Many of you right now are having to give up perhaps dreams
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- Of an early retirement or comfort and relaxation
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- In order to take care of aging parents.
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- And there are thousands of members
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- Of our first baptist church in dallas
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- As well as churches all around the world
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- Who give up the very real right they have
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- To have their weekends for themselves,
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- To travel as they want to,
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- To have a lake house
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- In order to be in church on sunday mornings.
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- Not just to sit and to soak
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- But to be in a place of responsibility in the church
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- In order to meet the needs,
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- The spiritual needs of others.
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- That's what it means to sacrifice,
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- To let go of what you have a right to
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- In order to serve a greater purpose.
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- What does it take to be a servant?
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- It takes humility.
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- Honestly realizing what belongs to you
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- And who you are in christ.
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- Secondly, to be willing to give up those rights
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- That belong to you.
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- And thirdly, there has to be the component of faith.
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- Now, listen to me.
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- We will never consistently put the needs
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- Of other people above our own
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- Until we're convinced there's a payoff
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- Somewhere down the line for doing that.
- 00:10:24.613 --> 00:10:27.783
- Now, i know.
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- I heard it the last time i said that
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- When we talked about having an obedient heart.
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- Some of you winced at that thought
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- That we have to be rewarded in order to do the right thing.
- 00:10:35.057 --> 00:10:38.928
- "well, pastor, shouldn't we just obey god
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- Because we're supposed to and we want to?"
- 00:10:41.197 --> 00:10:44.033
- People who say that are more spiritual than god is.
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- (congregation chuckling)
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- 'cause the fact is, god created us.
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- He knows we need an incentive
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- To continually and consistently obey him.
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- That was true, by the way, for jesus himself.
- 00:10:56.712 --> 00:10:59.381
- Remember the passage we looked at a couple of weeks ago?
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- Hebrews 12:2.
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- Describing jesus,
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- "who for the joy set before him endured the cross,
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- Despising the shame,
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- And has sat down at the right hand of the throne of god."
- 00:11:11.994 --> 00:11:15.598
- Why did jesus go to the cross?
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- You know, 2,000 years later,
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- We get these crazy ideas about the cross.
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- We kind of romanticize the cross.
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- We sing about it,
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- Sometimes in these syrupy songs,
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- Not in our church,
- 00:11:32.248 --> 00:11:33.616
- -but in other churches. -(congregation chuckling)
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- Or we wear the little cross jewelry,
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- We romanticize the cross.
- 00:11:37.520 --> 00:11:39.989
- There was nothing romantic about the cross.
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- It was the most cruel tool of execution
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- Mankind ever created.
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- It was horrible!
- 00:11:49.165 --> 00:11:50.933
- Jesus didn't go to the cross because he wanted to.
- 00:11:50.933 --> 00:11:53.936
- He was not some spiritual sadomasochist
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- Who enjoyed the pain on behalf of other people.
- 00:11:56.739 --> 00:12:00.910
- It was sheer agony on that cross.
- 00:12:00.910 --> 00:12:04.613
- And why did he endure it?
- 00:12:04.613 --> 00:12:06.115
- Look at verse 2 of hebrews 12,
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- Because of the joy that set before him.
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- The belief that one day god was going to reward him
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- In heaven for his experience here on earth.
- 00:12:16.458 --> 00:12:20.863
- And god says the same about us.
- 00:12:20.863 --> 00:12:23.232
- God never asked us to separate the concept
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- Of service from reward.
- 00:12:26.168 --> 00:12:29.171
- He says, ultimately, there is a payoff for following god.
- 00:12:29.171 --> 00:12:32.508
- Hebrews 11:6,
- 00:12:32.508 --> 00:12:33.909
- "without faith, it is impossible to please god,"
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- For the person who comes to god,
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- Wants to have a relationship with god,
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- Must believe two things.
- 00:12:41.183 --> 00:12:42.952
- First of all, that god is,
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- That is, he exists,
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- And that god is a rewarder
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- Of those who seek him.
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- That's what happened to jesus.
- 00:12:53.128 --> 00:12:55.764
- God eventually rewarded him for his service.
- 00:12:55.764 --> 00:12:58.868
- Look again at philippians 2:8-11.
- 00:12:58.868 --> 00:13:00.870
- "and being found in the appearance as a man,
- 00:13:00.870 --> 00:13:03.172
- He humbled himself by becoming obedient
- 00:13:03.172 --> 00:13:05.774
- To the point of death,
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- Even death on a cross.
- 00:13:06.942 --> 00:13:08.410
- Therefore also god has highly exalted him,
- 00:13:08.410 --> 00:13:12.781
- And bestowed upon him the name which is above every name,
- 00:13:12.781 --> 00:13:16.685
- That at the name of jesus
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- Every knee should bow,
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- Of those who are in heaven, and on earth,
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- And under the earth,
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- And that every tongue should confess
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- That jesus christ is lord,
- 00:13:26.161 --> 00:13:28.297
- To the glory of god the father."
- 00:13:28.297 --> 00:13:30.866
- Now, serving god may cause us
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- To temporarily have to set aside our need
- 00:13:33.736 --> 00:13:37.640
- For recognition and reward.
- 00:13:37.640 --> 00:13:39.708
- Temporarily we have to set that aside,
- 00:13:39.708 --> 00:13:42.311
- But not eternally.
- 00:13:42.311 --> 00:13:44.380
- Go back to jesus' words for just a moment.
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- Jesus never asked us to give up our desire
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- To be recognized and rewarded.
- 00:13:51.320 --> 00:13:53.856
- Did jesus say to his disciples,
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- "whoever desires to be greatest among you
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- Is a self-serving jerk
- 00:14:00.663 --> 00:14:02.498
- And doesn't have a clue about christianity?"
- 00:14:02.498 --> 00:14:04.800
- Is that what jesus said?
- 00:14:04.800 --> 00:14:07.002
- No.
- 00:14:07.002 --> 00:14:08.237
- Nothing wrong with wanting to be great.
- 00:14:08.237 --> 00:14:10.439
- He said, "but whoever wishes to be great among you,
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- Here's the way to do it.
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- Let him become a servant."
- 00:14:16.045 --> 00:14:18.380
- There is a reward coming for those who follow christ.
- 00:14:19.415 --> 00:14:24.420
- You know, eventually we have things happen in this life
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- That are kind of a preview of coming attractions
- 00:14:27.423 --> 00:14:29.758
- Of the rewards that await us in heaven one day.
- 00:14:29.758 --> 00:14:33.462
- The weekend following september 11, 2001,
- 00:14:34.363 --> 00:14:38.867
- Syndicated columnist peggy noonan went down
- 00:14:38.867 --> 00:14:42.304
- To lower manhattan to witness the relief work
- 00:14:42.304 --> 00:14:44.907
- That was taking place at ground zero.
- 00:14:44.907 --> 00:14:48.143
- She watched the endless procession
- 00:14:48.143 --> 00:14:50.045
- Of trucks leaving the site filled with teams
- 00:14:50.045 --> 00:14:53.482
- Of construction workers, police, firemen,
- 00:14:53.482 --> 00:14:56.385
- And medical technicians.
- 00:14:56.385 --> 00:14:58.654
- Noonan described it as a procession
- 00:14:58.654 --> 00:15:00.422
- Of the not-so-rich and famous.
- 00:15:00.422 --> 00:15:04.126
- But as these caravans rolled past
- 00:15:04.126 --> 00:15:06.428
- The assembled group of onlookers,
- 00:15:06.428 --> 00:15:08.864
- These ordinary workers were treated like celebrities.
- 00:15:08.864 --> 00:15:13.302
- Noonan says she joined the crowd as they shouted out.
- 00:15:13.302 --> 00:15:16.338
- "thank you! god bless you!
- 00:15:16.338 --> 00:15:19.575
- Thank you for helping us."
- 00:15:19.575 --> 00:15:22.044
- Noonan writes,
- 00:15:22.044 --> 00:15:23.412
- "i looked around me at all of us who were cheering
- 00:15:23.412 --> 00:15:26.515
- And saw people who were investment bankers,
- 00:15:26.515 --> 00:15:29.618
- Orthodontists, magazine editors.
- 00:15:29.618 --> 00:15:32.988
- We had been the kings and queens of the city.
- 00:15:32.988 --> 00:15:36.392
- Respected professionals
- 00:15:36.392 --> 00:15:38.127
- In a city that respects its professional class.
- 00:15:38.127 --> 00:15:42.164
- But this night we were nobodies.
- 00:15:42.164 --> 00:15:45.367
- We were so useless,
- 00:15:45.367 --> 00:15:46.935
- All we could do was applaud the somebodies,
- 00:15:46.935 --> 00:15:50.639
- The workers who, unlike us,
- 00:15:50.639 --> 00:15:53.075
- Had not been applauded much in their lives."
- 00:15:53.075 --> 00:15:56.879
- What peggy noonan saw that night was a preview
- 00:15:57.813 --> 00:16:00.516
- Of what heaven is going to be.
- 00:16:00.516 --> 00:16:02.851
- I remember hearing billy graham interviewed one time
- 00:16:02.851 --> 00:16:05.287
- By diane sawyer on abc,
- 00:16:05.287 --> 00:16:07.890
- And she said,
- 00:16:07.890 --> 00:16:09.391
- "dr. graham, i'm sure you're looking forward to heaven
- 00:16:09.391 --> 00:16:12.494
- Because of all of the rewards you're going to receive
- 00:16:12.494 --> 00:16:15.097
- For your service to christ."
- 00:16:15.097 --> 00:16:17.533
- He said, "i'm looking forward to heaven,
- 00:16:17.533 --> 00:16:19.435
- But not for that reason,
- 00:16:19.435 --> 00:16:20.702
- Because i don't think i'm going to have
- 00:16:20.702 --> 00:16:22.504
- That many rewards in heaven.
- 00:16:22.504 --> 00:16:25.340
- I've received my recognition and rewards here on earth.
- 00:16:25.340 --> 00:16:29.678
- I think the people who receive rewards in heaven
- 00:16:29.678 --> 00:16:33.182
- Are going to be those believers we've never heard about
- 00:16:33.182 --> 00:16:35.818
- In this life.
- 00:16:35.818 --> 00:16:37.519
- Believers who have quietly served god
- 00:16:37.519 --> 00:16:39.788
- Without recognition or reward."
- 00:16:39.788 --> 00:16:42.558
- And that's what the word of god is saying.
- 00:16:43.459 --> 00:16:46.028
- Those who sacrifice,
- 00:16:46.028 --> 00:16:47.830
- Those who give up what belongs to them
- 00:16:47.830 --> 00:16:51.700
- In order to serve a greater purpose
- 00:16:52.501 --> 00:16:55.471
- Are going to enjoy the unending applause of heaven
- 00:16:55.471 --> 00:16:59.641
- And the eternal approval of their god.
- 00:16:59.641 --> 00:17:04.513
- I said at the outset of this message,
- 00:17:05.280 --> 00:17:07.883
- Becoming a servant,
- 00:17:07.883 --> 00:17:09.251
- Putting the needs of other people among yourselves,
- 00:17:09.251 --> 00:17:11.453
- Is a prerequisite for being a disciple of christ.
- 00:17:11.453 --> 00:17:14.356
- But it doesn't come naturally or easily to any of us.
- 00:17:14.356 --> 00:17:18.293
- So, as we close today,
- 00:17:18.293 --> 00:17:20.229
- I'd like to close in these final few minutes
- 00:17:20.229 --> 00:17:23.198
- With just three practical suggestions to help you,
- 00:17:23.198 --> 00:17:27.035
- As chuck swindoll once said,
- 00:17:27.035 --> 00:17:28.537
- "improve your serve."
- 00:17:28.537 --> 00:17:30.105
- How to become a better servant of god.
- 00:17:30.105 --> 00:17:33.609
- How do you do that?
- 00:17:33.609 --> 00:17:35.811
- Those of you who used to be here
- 00:17:36.445 --> 00:17:38.413
- When dr. criswell was the pastor,
- 00:17:38.413 --> 00:17:40.849
- If you ever had the experience of going up to his office,
- 00:17:40.849 --> 00:17:45.187
- You might remember that on his coffee table
- 00:17:45.187 --> 00:17:47.523
- There is a beautifully bound leather book.
- 00:17:47.523 --> 00:17:50.893
- And on the cover of the book was,
- 00:17:50.893 --> 00:17:54.329
- Embossed in gold letters,
- 00:17:54.897 --> 00:17:56.598
- The title of the book.
- 00:17:56.598 --> 00:17:58.400
- Remember the title?
- 00:17:58.400 --> 00:17:59.902
- "my humility and how i achieved it."
- 00:17:59.902 --> 00:18:03.906
- (congregation chuckling)
- 00:18:03.906 --> 00:18:05.140
- And you'd open up the book,
- 00:18:05.140 --> 00:18:06.675
- And it was all blank pages of white paper.
- 00:18:06.675 --> 00:18:10.279
- I mean, the joke was obvious.
- 00:18:10.279 --> 00:18:12.347
- Whoever thinks they've achieved humility
- 00:18:12.347 --> 00:18:14.516
- Is not truly humble.
- 00:18:14.516 --> 00:18:16.652
- The same thing is true about servanthood.
- 00:18:16.652 --> 00:18:18.787
- We never arrive.
- 00:18:18.787 --> 00:18:20.022
- We never get to the place we can say,
- 00:18:20.022 --> 00:18:21.857
- "now i'm a servant."
- 00:18:21.857 --> 00:18:23.392
- But there are some things we can do to improve our serve.
- 00:18:23.392 --> 00:18:27.629
- Let's go back to those three components just a moment.
- 00:18:27.629 --> 00:18:30.332
- First of all, about humility.
- 00:18:30.332 --> 00:18:33.435
- About humility.
- 00:18:33.802 --> 00:18:34.703
- How can you become humble?
- 00:18:34.703 --> 00:18:37.105
- Recognizing what god has given you
- 00:18:37.105 --> 00:18:39.374
- But giving him credit for it.
- 00:18:39.374 --> 00:18:41.843
- Let me encourage you, sometime this afternoon,
- 00:18:41.843 --> 00:18:44.246
- Sometime this week,
- 00:18:44.246 --> 00:18:45.447
- Take a moment and write a paragraph
- 00:18:45.447 --> 00:18:48.417
- That describes your epitaph,
- 00:18:48.417 --> 00:18:51.053
- What you'd like people to remember about you,
- 00:18:51.053 --> 00:18:53.522
- What you'd like your family to know about you.
- 00:18:53.522 --> 00:18:56.391
- It might include some accomplishments
- 00:18:56.391 --> 00:18:58.093
- About which you're particularly proud.
- 00:18:58.093 --> 00:19:00.629
- It might be some qualities
- 00:19:00.629 --> 00:19:02.130
- That people have told you they've appreciated in you.
- 00:19:02.130 --> 00:19:06.068
- It might be some experiences you've had.
- 00:19:06.068 --> 00:19:08.971
- There's nothing wrong with identifying those things.
- 00:19:08.971 --> 00:19:11.473
- Write down a paragraph that describes you at your best.
- 00:19:11.473 --> 00:19:16.778
- And then read the words of 1 corinthians 4:7.
- 00:19:17.713 --> 00:19:20.549
- "and what do you have that you did not receive?
- 00:19:20.549 --> 00:19:24.086
- But if you did receive it,
- 00:19:24.086 --> 00:19:25.621
- Why do you boast as if you had not received it?"
- 00:19:25.621 --> 00:19:29.324
- You know my definition of humility?
- 00:19:30.092 --> 00:19:32.294
- It's recognizing that any good thing in my life
- 00:19:32.294 --> 00:19:34.997
- Is the result of what either god or others have done for me.
- 00:19:34.997 --> 00:19:40.235
- When you write down those things
- 00:19:40.869 --> 00:19:41.803
- You're proud about in your life,
- 00:19:41.803 --> 00:19:43.305
- Take a moment to thank god for those things.
- 00:19:43.305 --> 00:19:46.275
- If needed, thank those people in your life god has used
- 00:19:46.275 --> 00:19:49.945
- To bring those positive things into your life.
- 00:19:49.945 --> 00:19:54.016
- Secondly, about sacrifice.
- 00:19:54.016 --> 00:19:56.385
- Again, that doesn't come necessary,
- 00:19:56.385 --> 00:19:58.287
- But it's an important component of servanthood.
- 00:19:58.287 --> 00:20:01.390
- Giving up something that belongs to you
- 00:20:01.390 --> 00:20:04.126
- In order to meet the needs of other people.
- 00:20:04.126 --> 00:20:07.396
- I'd like to encourage you to make a challenge to yourself
- 00:20:07.396 --> 00:20:10.866
- Of once a day letting go of something
- 00:20:10.866 --> 00:20:13.635
- That is a right of yours
- 00:20:13.635 --> 00:20:15.137
- In order to meet the need of somebody else.
- 00:20:15.137 --> 00:20:17.105
- For example, perhaps time is your most valuable commodity
- 00:20:17.105 --> 00:20:20.809
- Every day.
- 00:20:20.809 --> 00:20:22.411
- Why not take 30 minutes
- 00:20:22.411 --> 00:20:24.012
- That you might spend doing something for yourself,
- 00:20:24.012 --> 00:20:25.981
- Something you enjoy,
- 00:20:25.981 --> 00:20:28.050
- And use that time to help somebody else.
- 00:20:28.050 --> 00:20:31.053
- Maybe somebody needs an encouraging phone call from you
- 00:20:31.053 --> 00:20:34.456
- Or a text or an email.
- 00:20:34.456 --> 00:20:36.692
- Maybe there's somebody you can drop by
- 00:20:36.692 --> 00:20:38.293
- And see at the hospital or someplace else.
- 00:20:38.293 --> 00:20:40.962
- But 30 minutes meeting the needs of other people
- 00:20:40.962 --> 00:20:44.666
- Other than your own.
- 00:20:44.666 --> 00:20:46.468
- Maybe you're one of those people
- 00:20:46.468 --> 00:20:48.670
- Who has some discretionary income.
- 00:20:48.670 --> 00:20:51.840
- Maybe using some of that discretionary income every week
- 00:20:51.840 --> 00:20:55.844
- Instead of spending it on yourself
- 00:20:55.844 --> 00:20:57.946
- To spend it on somebody who has a legitimate need
- 00:20:57.946 --> 00:21:01.350
- That you can meet.
- 00:21:01.350 --> 00:21:02.784
- And then thirdly, about faith.
- 00:21:03.418 --> 00:21:06.755
- We said, without faith,
- 00:21:06.755 --> 00:21:08.623
- You can't please god.
- 00:21:08.623 --> 00:21:10.926
- Without the assurance
- 00:21:10.926 --> 00:21:12.461
- That god is going to reward you one day for your sacrifices,
- 00:21:12.461 --> 00:21:16.431
- You'll never do that continually.
- 00:21:16.431 --> 00:21:18.700
- I told you i keep a prayer journal,
- 00:21:19.501 --> 00:21:21.436
- A list of things that i'm asking god for
- 00:21:21.436 --> 00:21:24.439
- And record the answers.
- 00:21:24.439 --> 00:21:25.974
- If you keep a prayer journal,
- 00:21:25.974 --> 00:21:28.110
- Here's a separate list you might want to keep.
- 00:21:28.110 --> 00:21:30.412
- And i know this is going to sound weird to you,
- 00:21:30.412 --> 00:21:32.080
- But stick with me.
- 00:21:32.080 --> 00:21:33.582
- Why not keep a running list
- 00:21:34.182 --> 00:21:36.151
- Of things you're expecting god to reward you for one day?
- 00:21:36.151 --> 00:21:40.756
- Things you believe god is going to reward you for.
- 00:21:41.790 --> 00:21:44.726
- Maybe not in this life but in the next life,
- 00:21:44.726 --> 00:21:47.796
- But sacrifices you are making
- 00:21:47.796 --> 00:21:51.066
- To meet the needs of other people,
- 00:21:51.066 --> 00:21:53.201
- To be a true disciple of god.
- 00:21:53.201 --> 00:21:55.771
- You say, that sounds kind of weird, doesn't it?
- 00:21:56.772 --> 00:21:59.141
- No, not if you believe god says he's a rewarder
- 00:21:59.141 --> 00:22:01.510
- Of those who diligently serve him.
- 00:22:01.510 --> 00:22:04.246
- What sacrifices are you making
- 00:22:04.246 --> 00:22:05.947
- That are worthy of god rewarding?
- 00:22:05.947 --> 00:22:07.449
- Now, i'm not talking about your responsibilities.
- 00:22:07.449 --> 00:22:10.152
- Loving your mate doesn't count, okay?
- 00:22:10.152 --> 00:22:12.287
- That's a normal responsibility.
- 00:22:12.287 --> 00:22:14.523
- That's not an above-and-beyond duty.
- 00:22:14.523 --> 00:22:16.358
- Caring for your children, obeying god's commands,
- 00:22:16.358 --> 00:22:19.361
- Those are all part of what we're responsible to.
- 00:22:19.361 --> 00:22:22.230
- But i'm talking about those things
- 00:22:22.230 --> 00:22:23.632
- That are above and beyond your call,
- 00:22:23.632 --> 00:22:25.400
- Real rights that you have
- 00:22:25.400 --> 00:22:27.569
- That you are voluntarily giving up for somebody else.
- 00:22:27.569 --> 00:22:32.908
- You know, just as there is no reward without sacrifice,
- 00:22:34.009 --> 00:22:38.246
- There will be no continual sacrifice
- 00:22:39.047 --> 00:22:41.016
- Without the assurance of reward.
- 00:22:41.016 --> 00:22:44.252
- Jesus christ was willing to give up his rights as god
- 00:22:44.252 --> 00:22:49.624
- To meet our needs.
- 00:22:50.058 --> 00:22:51.326
- Not because he was obligated to do so,
- 00:22:51.326 --> 00:22:54.396
- But because he was a servant at heart.
- 00:22:55.230 --> 00:23:00.535
- Are you?
- 00:23:00.769 --> 00:23:02.003
- ♪ music ♪
- 00:23:02.003 --> 00:23:06.141
- "for even the son of man did not come to be served,
- 00:23:07.142 --> 00:23:10.645
- But to serve,
- 00:23:10.645 --> 00:23:11.947
- And to give his life as a ransom for many."
- 00:23:11.947 --> 00:23:15.050
- And in the same way,
- 00:23:15.050 --> 00:23:16.551
- Jesus calls us to put the needs of others before our own.
- 00:23:16.551 --> 00:23:20.822
- Now, before i close today,
- 00:23:20.822 --> 00:23:22.324
- I want to thank those of you
- 00:23:22.324 --> 00:23:23.492
- Who partner with "pathway to victory"
- 00:23:23.492 --> 00:23:25.727
- With your generous support.
- 00:23:25.727 --> 00:23:27.729
- You're demonstrating a servant's heart
- 00:23:27.729 --> 00:23:30.398
- By investing in the spiritual needs
- 00:23:30.398 --> 00:23:32.334
- Of people you may never meet.
- 00:23:32.334 --> 00:23:34.369
- Because of your faithfulness,
- 00:23:34.369 --> 00:23:36.071
- People across america
- 00:23:36.071 --> 00:23:37.639
- And around the world are discovering what it means
- 00:23:37.639 --> 00:23:40.642
- To follow jesus christ.
- 00:23:40.642 --> 00:23:42.777
- Together we're making an eternal difference
- 00:23:42.777 --> 00:23:45.814
- As we pierce the darkness with the light of god's word.
- 00:23:45.814 --> 00:23:50.252
- Now, stay right there.
- 00:23:50.252 --> 00:23:51.553
- I'll be back with more "pathway to victory"
- 00:23:51.553 --> 00:23:54.022
- In just a moment.
- 00:23:54.022 --> 00:23:55.390
- ♪ music ♪
- 00:23:55.390 --> 00:23:57.692
- We all need god's strength to make it through the day.
- 00:23:57.692 --> 00:24:00.562
- "encouragement for the heart of a disciple"
- 00:24:00.562 --> 00:24:02.697
- By dr. robert jeffress provides
- 00:24:02.697 --> 00:24:04.666
- The spiritual refreshment you need.
- 00:24:04.666 --> 00:24:06.968
- In a large-print format,
- 00:24:06.968 --> 00:24:08.537
- Every page bursts with breathtaking imagery
- 00:24:08.537 --> 00:24:11.339
- That draws you toward the beauty of god's creation.
- 00:24:11.339 --> 00:24:14.576
- I know how challenging it can be
- 00:24:14.576 --> 00:24:16.511
- To stay connected with god in our busy lives.
- 00:24:16.511 --> 00:24:19.548
- In my new devotional,
- 00:24:19.548 --> 00:24:21.082
- I provide personal reflections and practical insights
- 00:24:21.082 --> 00:24:24.486
- That will help you experience god's presence
- 00:24:24.486 --> 00:24:26.922
- And encouragement throughout your day,
- 00:24:26.922 --> 00:24:29.658
- Filled with stunning images of creation,
- 00:24:29.658 --> 00:24:31.993
- Scripture verses,
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- And prayers you can read in under two minutes,
- 00:24:33.295 --> 00:24:35.530
- This padded hardcover book is the perfect daily companion
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- To help refresh your spirit,
- 00:24:39.000 --> 00:24:40.602
- Morning and night.
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- It also makes a thoughtful gift
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- To encourage a friend or loved one.
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- Request your copy
- 00:24:45.740 --> 00:24:47.042
- Of "encouragement for the heart of a disciple"
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- When you give a generous gift
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- To support the ministry of "pathway to victory"
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- Or when you become a "pathway" partner.
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- With your ministry gift of $100 or more,
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- We'll send you the encouragement resource set,
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- Containing the new devotional,
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- Six clutter-free prayer cards,
- 00:25:03.091 --> 00:25:05.060
- The clutter-free christianity book
- 00:25:05.060 --> 00:25:06.995
- And life application guide,
- 00:25:06.995 --> 00:25:08.597
- And the "7 marks of a disciple" message series
- 00:25:08.597 --> 00:25:11.700
- On both cd and dvd.
- 00:25:11.700 --> 00:25:13.735
- Thank you for supporting "pathway to victory."
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- Your generous partnership helps us impact you
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- And your family
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- And a nation in deep spiritual need
- 00:25:20.175 --> 00:25:22.310
- With the transforming truth of god's word.
- 00:25:22.310 --> 00:25:26.214
- Becoming a servant doesn't come naturally to any of us,
- 00:25:27.315 --> 00:25:31.286
- But jesus modeled a radically different way
- 00:25:31.286 --> 00:25:33.989
- Of living when he said,
- 00:25:33.989 --> 00:25:35.991
- "i came not to be served, but to serve."
- 00:25:35.991 --> 00:25:39.427
- And that same servant's heart should characterize
- 00:25:39.427 --> 00:25:42.097
- Every true follower of jesus christ.
- 00:25:42.097 --> 00:25:45.467
- Well, the two most important issues in life deal
- 00:25:45.467 --> 00:25:48.036
- With the subject of forgiveness:
- 00:25:48.036 --> 00:25:50.572
- Choosing to receive god's forgiveness from god
- 00:25:50.572 --> 00:25:54.142
- And choosing to extend forgiveness to those who wrong us.
- 00:25:54.142 --> 00:25:58.113
- And the latter will be our focus next time
- 00:25:58.113 --> 00:26:00.782
- As we learn to develop a forgiving heart.
- 00:26:00.782 --> 00:26:04.219
- Stay tuned for a preview of what's coming up next
- 00:26:04.219 --> 00:26:06.621
- In our series "7 marks of a disciple."
- 00:26:06.621 --> 00:26:11.092
- Think about it,
- 00:26:11.459 --> 00:26:12.694
- Forgiveness, holding on to an offense,
- 00:26:12.694 --> 00:26:14.863
- Replaying it over and over again in your mind
- 00:26:14.863 --> 00:26:19.668
- Is like reliving the experience all again.
- 00:26:19.668 --> 00:26:22.303
- I mean, it's bad enough for somebody to hurt you once,
- 00:26:22.303 --> 00:26:25.674
- But when you recall that event,
- 00:26:25.674 --> 00:26:27.976
- Your body, your mind registers it
- 00:26:27.976 --> 00:26:30.912
- As if you're experiencing that hurt again.
- 00:26:30.912 --> 00:26:33.648
- Why would anybody want to let
- 00:26:33.648 --> 00:26:35.183
- Their offender continually hurt them?
- 00:26:35.183 --> 00:26:38.853
- Set your dvr and join us next time
- 00:26:39.621 --> 00:26:41.790
- For the message developing a forgiving heart
- 00:26:41.790 --> 00:26:44.759
- Here on "pathway to victory."
- 00:26:44.759 --> 00:26:47.896
- Take a journey through alaska's awe-inspiring wilderness
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- On the 2026 pathway to victory cruise to alaska.
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- With dr. robert jeffress aboard holland america's
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- Magnificent koningsdam
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- Share laughter with dennis swanberg
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- Be inspired by award-winning musician michael o'brien's
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- Powerful worship
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- Make plans to set sail
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- For an unforgettable week of adventure,
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- June 13 through 20, 2026.
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- Call 888-280-6747 or visit ptv.org.
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