Filling Our Lives: Embracing God's True Treasure
Summary
In a discussion about the significance of what fills our lives, the focus is drawn to the metaphor of jars, which represent our lives, and the contents within them, which symbolize what we prioritize and value. The jars come in various shapes, sizes, and conditions, much like individuals who are diverse in their experiences and backgrounds. However, the emphasis is not on the external appearance of the jars but rather on the treasure they hold within. This treasure is likened to the presence of Jesus Christ in one's heart, which is considered the true measure of value and purpose.
The narrative explores the idea that people often attempt to fill their lives with material possessions, wealth, and other transient pleasures, which are compared to Peanut M&M's—a temporary delight but not a sustainable source of nourishment. The pursuit of these things is contrasted with the fulfillment that comes from engaging in actions that have eternal significance, such as leading others to Christ or helping those in need. The point is made that while material possessions can bring temporary happiness, they are ultimately fleeting and cannot compare to the lasting impact of spiritual endeavors.
A biblical account from 2 Kings 4 is referenced, where a widow approaches the prophet Elisha for help. She is instructed to collect empty jars and fill them with oil, which miraculously continues to flow until all jars are filled. This story is used to illustrate the principle of obedience to God's commands, even when they may seem illogical or challenging. The widow's obedience results in a blessing that not only meets her immediate needs but also provides for her future. This narrative serves as an example of how faith and obedience can lead to God's provision and abundance.
The discussion also touches on the importance of honesty with oneself and with God about the state of one's life. It is suggested that individuals must confront their own emptiness or the things that they are trying to fill their lives with that may not have true value. The idea is presented that God is interested in using people as they are, with all their flaws and shortcomings, and that He can transform their lives into something of significance.
The concept of obedience is further emphasized as a key aspect of living a life that is filled with meaning and purpose. It is argued that by obeying the clear instructions laid out in the Bible, individuals can align their lives with God's will and experience the blessings that come from being used by God to make a positive difference in the world.
Finally, the discussion concludes with a call to reflection, asking individuals to consider what they need to empty from their lives to make room for what God wants to fill them with. The ultimate message is that a life filled with the things of God, including peace, joy, and purpose, is far superior to a life filled with the temporary and often meaningless pursuits of the world.
Key Takeaways:
- The true value of our lives is not determined by external appearances or material possessions, but by the spiritual treasure within us. Like fragile clay jars, we may be imperfect, but it is the presence of Jesus Christ in our hearts that gives us worth and purpose. This internal treasure drives our actions and should be the focus of our lives, rather than the vessel itself. [54:10]
- Obedience to God's commands is a central theme in living a life of significance. The story of the widow in 2 Kings 4 exemplifies how obedience, even in the face of seemingly irrational instructions, can lead to God's miraculous provision. Our willingness to trust and act upon God's word can result in blessings that align with His purposes for us. [48:03]
- Honesty with God about our circumstances is crucial for transformation. Admitting our emptiness or the futility of what we fill our lives with is the first step toward allowing God to work in us. By surrendering to God's plan and acknowledging our need for Him, we open ourselves up to His transformative power. [36:09]
- The greatest blessings come from serving others and advancing God's kingdom. Material wealth and pleasures may provide temporary satisfaction, but the enduring joy comes from making a difference in the lives of others. Being used by God to bless someone else leaves a profound and lasting impact that far outweighs any personal gain. [49:13]
- A life apart from God will never reach its full potential. For those seeking meaning and fulfillment, the message is clear: Jesus Christ is the only way to true life and forgiveness of sins. By emptying ourselves of worldly pursuits and filling our lives with God's presence, we find the peace and satisfaction that can only come from Him. [57:48]
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. 2 Kings 4:1-7 (NIV)
> One day the wife of a man from the company of the prophets cried out to Elisha, “Your servant my husband is dead, and you know that he revered the Lord. But now his creditor is coming to take my two boys as his slaves.” Elisha replied to her, “How can I help you? Tell me, what do you have in your house?” “Your servant has nothing there at all,” she said, “except a small jar of olive oil.” Elisha said, “Go around and ask all your neighbors for empty jars. Don’t ask for just a few. Then go inside and shut the door behind you and your sons. Pour oil into all the jars, and as each is filled, put it to one side.” She left him and shut the door behind her and her sons. They brought the jars to her and she kept pouring. When all the jars were full, she said to her son, “Bring me another one.” But he replied, “There is not a jar left.” Then the oil stopped flowing. She went and told the man of God, and he said, “Go, sell the oil and pay your debts. You and your sons can live on what is left.”
#### Observation Questions
1. What did the widow initially have in her house when she approached Elisha for help? ([29:13])
2. How did the widow respond to Elisha's instructions, and what was the result? ([29:48])
3. What was the significance of the jars in the story of the widow and Elisha? ([28:42])
4. According to the sermon, what are some things people often fill their lives with that are compared to Peanut M&M's? ([21:44])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think Elisha asked the widow to gather empty jars from her neighbors? What might this symbolize in our spiritual lives? ([29:48])
2. How does the story of the widow and the jars illustrate the importance of obedience to God's commands, even when they seem illogical? ([43:30])
3. The sermon mentioned that honesty with God about our circumstances is crucial for transformation. Why is this honesty important, and how can it lead to change? ([36:09])
4. What does the metaphor of jars and their contents teach us about the true value and purpose of our lives? ([54:10])
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your own life. What are some "Peanut M&M's" that you might be filling your life with? How can you start replacing them with things of eternal significance? ([21:44])
2. The widow had to be honest about her situation before she could receive help. Is there an area in your life where you need to be more honest with God? What steps can you take to address this? ([36:09])
3. Obedience to God's commands was a key theme in the sermon. Can you think of a time when you obeyed God even though it didn't make sense at the time? What was the outcome? ([43:30])
4. The sermon emphasized the importance of serving others and advancing God's kingdom. Identify one specific way you can serve someone in need this week. How can this act of service bring lasting joy and fulfillment? ([49:13])
5. Consider the metaphor of the jars. What do you need to "empty" from your life to make room for what God wants to fill you with? How can you start this process today? ([57:48])
6. The sermon mentioned that a life apart from God will never reach its full potential. How can you ensure that your life is aligned with God's will and filled with His presence? ([57:48])
7. Think about the story of the widow and the jars. How can you apply the principle of using what little you have and trusting God to multiply it in your own life? ([29:48])
Devotional
Day 1: Treasure Within Our Clay
Our worth is not in our external achievements or possessions, but in the spiritual richness that comes from Christ within us. Like jars of clay, we are vessels that carry an invaluable treasure, which is the presence of Jesus in our hearts. This treasure defines our purpose and should guide our priorities in life. [54:10]
2 Corinthians 4:7 - "But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us."
Reflection: What external measures of success have you been pursuing, and how can you shift your focus to the treasure of Christ within you?
Day 2: The Blessings of Obedience
Obedience to God often requires faith beyond our understanding, yet it is the pathway to experiencing His miraculous provision. The story of the widow's oil reminds us that God's instructions may defy human logic, but His blessings never fail those who trust and obey. [48:03]
1 Samuel 15:22 - "But Samuel replied: 'Does the Lord delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the Lord? To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams.'"
Reflection: Can you recall a time when following God's commands seemed illogical? How did obedience impact your life, and what can you learn from that experience?
Day 3: Honesty Opens the Door to Transformation
Admitting our spiritual emptiness and the futility of worldly pursuits is the first step toward transformation. When we are honest with God about our need for Him, He is ready to fill us with His presence and purpose, reshaping our lives into vessels of honor. [36:09]
Psalm 51:6 - "Yet you desired faithfulness even in the womb; you taught me wisdom in that secret place."
Reflection: What are you filling your life with that lacks eternal value, and how can you begin to empty yourself to make room for God's transforming work?
Day 4: Serving Others, Serving God
True joy and fulfillment come not from accumulating wealth or seeking personal pleasure, but from serving others and advancing God's kingdom. The impact we have on others' lives through service is a lasting treasure that far outweighs any temporary gain. [49:13]
Hebrews 6:10 - "God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them."
Reflection: Who can you serve or bless today, and how might this act of service bring you closer to experiencing God's joy?
Day 5: Embracing a Life Filled with God
A life without God may seem full, but it lacks true potential and fulfillment. By emptying ourselves of worldly pursuits and filling our lives with God's presence, we discover the peace and satisfaction that only He can provide. [57:48]
Ephesians 3:17-19 - "So that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ."
Reflection: What worldly pursuits do you need to empty from your life, and how can you actively seek to fill that space with God's presence starting today?
Quotes
1) "We're never going to fill our life up with the right things until we're ready to be honest with God about who we are and what's going on in our lives." [38:24]
2) "God's in the business of taking us as who we are and transforming us. He changes the way we think and begins a work in us that doesn't end until we go to meet Jesus." [41:07]
3) "The greatest blessing I can have is to lead someone to Jesus Christ. That fills up the jar that is my life better than anything else and it matters more than anything else." [49:13]
4) "What God wants to bless us with and how He wants to use us, what He wants to fill our life up with, is so much bigger and so much better than any of this other stuff." [51:35]
5) "God looks at us broken and flawed as we can be and says if you'll surrender to me, if you'll do it my way, I've got a plan, I can use you." [41:07]
6) "The size of her blessing was directly related to how obedient she had been in getting the jars. Her blessing was directly related to her level of obedience." [48:03]
7) "If we want to fill our lives up with the right things, with Godly things, with things of substance that bring joy and peace, it means we go to the word of God and we're ready to obey." [47:21]
8) "Your life apart from God will never be what it should be. You need Jesus Christ for forgiveness of your sins. There is no other way." [57:48]
9) "What is it in my life that I need to empty so that God can fill my life with what He wants me to have, which is always better than anything I come up with anyway?" [58:24]
10) "We become what we consume and surround ourselves with. So what are we filling the jar that is our life with, and what should it be filled with?" [57:10]
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