July 17, 2022

THE CHALLENGE OF GREATNESS

I Samuel 16:7 – The Lord does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.

Acts 13:22 – (God) David is a man after my own heart.

Four Tests Of A Great Heart

I. First Test: Sin

David’s Response: A repentant heart.

Psalm 51:1-3 – O loving and kind God, have mercy. Have pity upon me and take away the awful stain of my sins.

Wash me, cleanse me from this guilt. Let me be pure again. For I admit my shameful deed.

Psalm 51:17 – God will not reject a repentant heart.

II. Second Test: Stress

David’s Response: A trusting heart.

Psalm 118:5-6 – In my distress, I prayed to the Lord and he answered me and rescued me. He is for me: How can I be afraid?

Psalm 73:26 – My mind and my body may grow weak, but God is my strength, He is all I ever need.

Psalm 116:10 – I kept on believing, even when I said, I am completely crushed.

III. Third Test : Service

David’s Response: A servant’s heart.

Acts 13:22- (God) he will do everything I want him to do.

Psalm 119:10 – With all my heart I try to serve you.

Psalm 119:38 – Keep me from paying attention to what is worthless.

II Samuel 24:24 – I will not offer to the Lord sacrifices that have cost me nothing.

IV. Fourth test: Success

David’s Response: A humble heart.

Psalm 115:1 – To You alone, O Lord, to You alone, and not unto us must glory be given.

Psalm 75:6 – For promotion and power come from nowhere on earth but only from God. He promotes one and disposes another.

II Chron. 16:9 – For the eyes of the Lord search back and forth across the whole earth, looking for people whose hearts are perfect toward Him, so He can show His great power in helping them.