Celebrating Teamwork and Servanthood in God's Kingdom

Devotional

Day 1: Trusting in God's Perfect Timing and Plans

Reflecting on 18 years of Harvest Fellowship, it's evident that God's timing and plans often surpass our own dreams and expectations. His ways are higher than our ways, and His thoughts are higher than our thoughts. Trusting in His divine timing can lead to outcomes far greater than we could imagine. This principle encourages us to rely on God's wisdom and timing, even when our own plans seem more appealing or logical.

When we look back at the journey of Harvest Fellowship, we see that God's timing has been impeccable. There were moments of doubt and uncertainty, but in hindsight, every step was perfectly orchestrated. This teaches us to have faith in God's plans, knowing that He sees the bigger picture and has our best interests at heart. Trusting in His timing requires patience and surrender, but it ultimately leads to a more fulfilling and purposeful life. [45:36]

Isaiah 55:8-9 (ESV): "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts."

Reflection: Think of a time when your plans didn't work out as you expected. How did God's timing and plans eventually reveal something better? How can you apply this trust in His timing to a current situation in your life?

Day 2: The Power of Teamwork in Achieving God's Vision

The phrase "teamwork makes the dream work" underscores the significance of collective effort in achieving God's vision. Effective teamwork can accomplish much more than any individual effort. This principle is vital for the church's growth and success. When we work together, we combine our strengths, talents, and resources to fulfill God's purposes more effectively.

In the context of Harvest Fellowship, the success and growth over the past 18 years can be attributed to the dedicated and effective team that has worked tirelessly to serve the community. Each member's contribution, no matter how small, has played a crucial role in achieving the collective vision. This teaches us the importance of unity and collaboration in the body of Christ. By working together, we can achieve far more than we could ever accomplish alone. [54:21]

Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 (ESV): "Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up!"

Reflection: Think about a project or goal you are currently working on. How can you involve others to make it more effective? What steps can you take to foster better teamwork and collaboration in your community or workplace?

Day 3: Embracing the Principle of No "I" in Team

In God's Kingdom, there is no ranking system. Every role, whether public or behind the scenes, is equally important. Obedience to God's calling is what matters, not the visibility or perceived importance of the task. This principle fosters humility and unity within the church, reminding us that every act of service is significant in God's eyes.

The idea that there is no "I" in team emphasizes the importance of collective goals over personal ambitions. It encourages us to prioritize the well-being and success of the group rather than seeking individual recognition. In the church, this means valuing every member's contribution, whether they are in a leadership position or serving in a less visible role. By embracing this principle, we create a culture of mutual respect and support, where everyone feels valued and appreciated. [55:51]

1 Corinthians 12:14-18 (ESV): "For the body does not consist of one member but of many. If the foot should say, 'Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,' that would not make it any less a part of the body. And if the ear should say, 'Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body,' that would not make it any less a part of the body. If the whole body were an eye, where would be the sense of hearing? If the whole body were an ear, where would be the sense of smell? But as it is, God arranged the members in the body, each one of them, as he chose."

Reflection: Reflect on your role within your community or church. How can you better appreciate and support the contributions of others? What steps can you take to ensure that everyone feels valued and included?

Day 4: Practicing Servant Leadership

True leadership in the Kingdom of God is about servanthood. The higher you go in leadership, the more people you serve. This principle, taught by Jesus, ensures that leaders remain humble and focused on serving others rather than seeking personal glory. It challenges the conventional notion of leadership as a position of power and authority, redefining it as a role of service and humility.

Jesus' teaching on servant leadership is exemplified in the story of James and John asking for places of honor. Jesus responded by emphasizing that greatness in God's Kingdom is measured by one's willingness to serve others. This principle is crucial for maintaining humility and ensuring that all glory goes to God. As leaders, we are called to serve those we lead, putting their needs above our own and leading by example. [59:56]

Mark 10:42-45 (ESV): "And Jesus called them to him and said to them, 'You know that those who are considered rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. But it shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.'"

Reflection: Consider your current leadership roles, whether in your family, workplace, or community. How can you practice servant leadership in these areas? What specific actions can you take to serve others and lead by example?

Day 5: Focusing on Your Calling

It's essential to focus on what God has called you to do, without comparing yourself to others. Your service, no matter how small it seems, contributes to the greater good and glorifies God. Follow Jesus wholeheartedly, knowing that your obedience is valuable and significant. This principle encourages us to stay true to our unique calling and purpose, trusting that God has a specific plan for each of us.

In the journey of faith, it's easy to fall into the trap of comparison, measuring our worth and success against others. However, God calls us to focus on our individual path and purpose. By doing so, we can fully embrace our unique gifts and talents, using them to serve others and glorify God. This requires a shift in perspective, recognizing that every act of service, no matter how small, is significant in God's Kingdom. [01:13:36]

Colossians 3:23-24 (ESV): "Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ."

Reflection: Reflect on your current responsibilities and tasks. Are there areas where you find yourself comparing your efforts to others? How can you refocus on your unique calling and purpose, trusting that your service is valuable and significant in God's eyes?

Sermon Summary

### Summary

Today marks a significant milestone as we celebrate 18 years of Harvest Fellowship. This celebration isn't about us; it's about what God has done and continues to do through us. Reflecting on the journey, it's clear that God's timing and plans are perfect, often surpassing our own dreams and expectations. The new series, "Dream Work," emphasizes the importance of teamwork in achieving God's vision. The phrase "teamwork makes the dream work" is attributed to John Maxwell, who also noted that a vision becomes a nightmare with a bad team. Thankfully, Harvest Fellowship has always been blessed with a dedicated and effective team.

The essence of this series is that there is no "I" in team. This principle, originating from a 1960s baseball player, Vernon Law, reminds us to prioritize collective goals over personal ambitions. In the Kingdom of God, there is no ranking system; every role is vital, and every act of service is significant. Whether you're a senior pastor or a greeter, your obedience to God's calling is equally important.

Jesus taught that true leadership is about servanthood. The higher you go in leadership, the more people you serve. This principle is crucial for maintaining humility and ensuring that all glory goes to God. The story of James and John asking Jesus for places of honor illustrates that in God's Kingdom, greatness is measured by one's willingness to serve others.

As we move forward with the "Dream Work" series, remember that every part matters. Whether your role is public or behind the scenes, it is essential and valuable. The challenge is to focus on what God has called you to do, without comparing yourself to others. Follow Jesus wholeheartedly, knowing that your service, no matter how small it seems, contributes to the greater good and glorifies God.

###

Key Takeaways

1. God's Perfect Timing and Plans: Reflecting on 18 years of Harvest Fellowship, it's evident that God's timing and plans often surpass our own dreams and expectations. His ways are higher than our ways, and His thoughts are higher than our thoughts. Trusting in His divine timing can lead to outcomes far greater than we could imagine. [45:36]
2. The Importance of Teamwork: The phrase "teamwork makes the dream work" underscores the significance of collective effort in achieving God's vision. Effective teamwork can accomplish much more than any individual effort. This principle is vital for the church's growth and success. [54:21]
3. No "I" in Team: In God's Kingdom, there is no ranking system. Every role, whether public or behind the scenes, is equally important. Obedience to God's calling is what matters, not the visibility or perceived importance of the task. This principle fosters humility and unity within the church. [55:51]
4. Servant Leadership: True leadership in the Kingdom of God is about servanthood. The higher you go in leadership, the more people you serve. This principle, taught by Jesus, ensures that leaders remain humble and focused on serving others rather than seeking personal glory. [59:56]
5. Focus on Your Calling: It's essential to focus on what God has called you to do, without comparing yourself to others. Your service, no matter how small it seems, contributes to the greater good and glorifies God. Follow Jesus wholeheartedly, knowing that your obedience is valuable and significant. [01:13:36]
### [73:36]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[45:36] - Introduction to New Series: Dream Work
[46:54] - Celebrating 18 Years of Harvest Fellowship
[48:52] - The Significance of Celebrating God's Work
[50:13] - Humility and Giving Glory to God
[51:40] - God's Greater Plans
[52:57] - Lessons from Early Challenges
[54:21] - The Origin of "Teamwork Makes the Dream Work"
[55:51] - There is No "I" in Team
[57:11] - The Dangers of Self-Centeredness
[58:35] - Biblical Foundation for Teamwork
[59:56] - Servant Leadership
[62:53] - The Higher You Go, The More You Serve
[64:07] - Equal Importance of All Callings
[66:47] - Do Your Part, Every Part Matters
[73:36] - Focus on Your Calling
[76:27] - Prayer for Salvation and Repentance
[83:52] - Worship and Giving Glory to God
[85:21] - Closing Remarks and Announcements

Bible Study Guide

Observation Questions

What was the significance of the 12 stones mentioned in Joshua 4:6-7, and how does it relate to the celebration of Harvest Fellowship's 18 years? [48:52]
According to 1 Corinthians 10:31, what should be the ultimate goal of all our actions, and how does this apply to the church's ministry? [50:13]
In Mark 10:35-45, what did Jesus teach about true leadership and servanthood? How did He respond to James and John's request for places of honor? [59:56]

Interpretation Questions

Reflecting on Joshua 4:6-7, why is it important to remember and celebrate what God has done in our lives and in our church? How can this practice impact our faith and community?
How does the principle of doing everything for the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31) challenge our daily actions and decisions, both in ministry and in personal life? [50:13]
Jesus' response to James and John in Mark 10:35-45 emphasizes servanthood. How does this teaching redefine our understanding of greatness and leadership in the church? [59:56]

Application Questions

Reflect on a time when you saw God's perfect timing and plans surpass your own dreams and expectations. How did this experience strengthen your trust in Him? [51:40]
"Teamwork makes the dream work" is a key theme of the sermon. How can you contribute to effective teamwork in your church or community? What specific actions can you take to support and collaborate with others? [54:21]
The sermon emphasized that there is no "I" in team and that every role is equally important. How can you apply this principle in your current role or ministry? Are there ways you can better support and value the contributions of others? [55:51]
Jesus taught that true leadership is about servanthood. In what ways can you serve others more effectively in your leadership roles, whether in church, work, or family? [59:56]
The sermon encourages focusing on your calling without comparing yourself to others. Identify one area where you struggle with comparison. How can you shift your focus to wholeheartedly following Jesus and fulfilling your unique calling? [01:13:36]
Think about a specific task or role you have in the church that may seem small or insignificant. How can you remind yourself of its importance and value in contributing to the greater good and glorifying God? [01:06:47]
The sermon mentioned the dangers of self-centeredness in ministry. Reflect on any tendencies you might have towards self-centeredness. What steps can you take to ensure that your actions and attitudes are aligned with serving others and giving glory to God? [57:11]

Sermon Clips

1. "We're celebrating it because it's about God and about what he has done and is doing. For several years we've had a kind of a theme for the growth that God was doing here and the vision that he had given us called 12 stones. If you've missed it, I'm not going to give you the whole thing. I will tell you it comes out of the book of Joshua and where Joshua taking over as a leader of the children of Israel after Moses had died leads them across the Jordan River through dry ground." [46:54] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

2. "I want to work in such a way that what I can be proud of my efforts and while I can do that but more importantly that I want to live out the last part first Corinthians 10 and 31 at the end of that says whatever you do do all to the glory of God whatever you do now we're talking about in the context of ministry but that applies in every aspect of your life okay whatever you do do all to the glory of God." [50:13] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

3. "God has done an amazing work in the last 18 years at Harvest Fellowship and it has been such an awesome honor to be a part of his team. Amen. It's cool. It started with a calling and the calling became a dream and I can honestly tell you that while I had ideas and thoughts of what Harvest Fellowship would be I had no idea fully of what God was going to do and what he is still doing. It still blows my mind." [50:13] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

4. "One of the stories I've told many times and for those of you who have been here you've heard this story but it's one of those times that God just opens your eyes you know have you ever had those moments where you just oh God that's what you were doing you know when we first started out I used to drive around and I've prayed through I've repented it's okay but I used to be frustrated that there'd be these these churches small churches you know five cars ten cars eight cars and but they had a building they had all these facilities and we were we were stuffing a hundred people into a pigeon infested uh retired we were like the anyways yeah we were all there and and we're not joking we're not saying that to be funny there were times that I would show up early to start cleaning up and I would have to chase pigeons out of the room because one had somehow gotten in through the roof and through the HVAC system a couple did die in the ceiling I can tell you it doesn't matter how much Febreze you spray." [51:40] (63 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

5. "Nothing will stop the move of God or destroy a work of God faster than a self-centered and self-serving child of God who thinks it's all about them. Nothing and yes there's a grammatical error that should say a instead of n but nothing will stop a move of God or destroy a work of God faster than a self-centered or self-serving child of God who thinks it's all about them. It's not and I gotta tell you and I don't mean to be rude when I say this it's not about you." [57:11] (35 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

6. "The higher in leadership you get the more people you get to serve. That's all it means the higher in leadership you get the more people you get to serve and and that's not just it may not be the world's way right you may not have heard that in your management courses in college but I can tell you if you think about it if you think about your favorite bosses over the years if you think about your favorite managers the the favorite people you had to work for I bet you they were people who served you and looked out for you and took care of you and had your best interest at heart why because it's biblical that's the way it works." [01:02:53] (38 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

7. "Obedience is obedience it doesn't matter the size of the request but we've we've messed up in the kingdom and I don't I'm not criticizing anybody because I've been there too but we've messed up sometimes by elevating certain people to certain positions and that's messed us up for a few reasons one it's messed us up because it puts us in a place where we might start thinking more of ourselves than we should and that's why we see people who are great people who love the Lord who are definitely called and anointed to do his work who make big mistakes and mess up in big ways right and might be critical because we're all human we all could do it." [01:05:26] (37 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

8. "Do your part because every part matters. Do your part because every part matters and I'm not going to preach all that because I'm only that for him but I gotta I say that to say to you first of all on the 18th the day we're celebrating our 18th year September 10th by the way is the day I want to say thank you as a pastor as a friend and as a part of this congregation thank you for every part you do whether it's big in public or whether it's behind the scenes and nobody ever knows about it thank you thank you for serving thank you for giving and for giving thank you for shaking hands and being nice." [01:06:47] (39 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

9. "When we go before the Lord when we pray and we start talking to God about what he would have us to do with our life what he'd have us to do with our day what he would have us to do in ministry what he'd have us to do whether it's at Harvard's fellowship or whether it's at our job place or whether it's at our school whether it's at Walmart or wherever it may be at the coffee shop whatever it may be when we start praying about that can we start praying about that can I encourage you to turn the the lights off around you spiritually don't think about anybody else don't think about what God's called them to do don't even think about what they are doing it's you and him what's it to you if they live forever you follow Jesus what's it to you if they have a ministry to millions you follow Jesus what's it to you if they only serve one person publicly their entire life you follow Jesus it's not about them it's about you and Jesus." [01:13:36] (48 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

10. "I encourage you too as we're saying this prayer maybe God's revealed some stuff in your life today that you need to repent of some stuff you need to give to him and surrender to him do it do it in this moment because he loves you and he wants that relationship with you to have no hindrance family if you would just say this prayer with me say heavenly father thank you for loving me me and thank you for sending your son to pay the price for my sin Jesus thank you for dying for me I know you didn't have to I'm so grateful that you did I ask you now forgive me of my sin be my lord be my savior and I'm going to live for you the rest of my life in Jesus name amen." [01:16:27] (61 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

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