Living Above Only: Embracing God's Promises for Progress
Summary
Today, we gathered to reflect on God’s desire for us to live “above only”—to move to the next level in every area of our lives. This is not just a wish, but a promise rooted in Deuteronomy 28:13, where God declares that He will make us the head and not the tail, above only and not beneath. Our rightful place as believers, through our relationship with Jesus Christ, is to live with a mindset and expectation of continual progress, excellence, and victory. We are not called to settle for mediocrity or stagnation, but to pursue the fullness of God’s purpose for us.
To live above only, we must understand that life is both natural and supernatural. While we are responsible for diligence and wise choices in the natural, we must also depend on God’s supernatural intervention, recognizing that our own strength and intellect have limits. Challenges and trials are not signs of defeat, but opportunities for the champion within us to emerge. God often allows difficulties to reveal the strength, faith, and gifts He has placed inside us.
A key example is Daniel, who thrived in a foreign land by maintaining an unwavering faith in God, a spirit of excellence, and a commitment to integrity. Daniel’s life teaches us that our mindset shapes our destiny. He chose to distinguish himself, not by blending in, but by standing out through faithfulness, wisdom, and the use of his God-given gifts. Daniel’s promotion and influence were the result of his decision to honor God above all, to pursue knowledge, and to use his gifts selflessly for the benefit of others.
Our choices and actions must be influenced by this “above only” mentality. We are called to be standout believers, refusing to compromise or settle for less than God’s best. Whether in our workplaces, families, or spiritual lives, we must aim for excellence, continually upgrade ourselves, and seek God’s wisdom. As we do so, God’s favor will distinguish us, and our lives will become testimonies of His faithfulness and power. Let us pray for the grace to develop this mindset, to use our gifts for God’s glory, and to move forward into the next level He has prepared for us.
Key Takeaways
- Living “above only” requires a partnership between natural diligence and supernatural dependence. While we must take responsibility for our actions and choices, we must also recognize that some breakthroughs only come by God’s intervention. True progress is found when we combine our efforts with unwavering trust in God’s power and guidance. [28:07]
- Challenges are not setbacks but setups for the champion within us to be revealed. God allows trials to stretch our faith, develop our character, and uncover strengths we didn’t know we had. Instead of shrinking back, we should see every difficulty as an opportunity for God’s glory to be displayed through us. [34:29]
- The mindset we carry determines the level we attain. Like Daniel, cultivating an “above only” mentality means refusing to let circumstances or the opinions of others define us. Our thoughts, decisions, and actions must be shaped by the truth of God’s promises, not by fear or mediocrity. [37:29]
- Excellence and wisdom are not accidental; they are cultivated through intentional pursuit. Daniel distinguished himself by seeking knowledge, reading, and developing his gifts. In a rapidly changing world, continual learning and the diligent use of our talents are essential for God’s promotion and for making a lasting impact. [01:02:05]
- Our gifts are meant to serve others and bring glory to God, not just to advance ourselves. Daniel’s selfless use of his abilities saved lives and led to the recognition of God’s greatness. When we use our skills for the benefit of others and point the glory back to God, He entrusts us with greater influence and blessing. [01:09:06]
Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[24:18] - Introduction: The Promise of “Above Only”
[26:06] - Understanding God’s Standard for His People
[28:07] - Living by Natural and Supernatural Means
[34:29] - Challenges Reveal the Champion in You
[35:39] - Developing a Next Level Mindset
[37:29] - Let Your Choices Reflect Your Calling
[39:07] - God’s Part and Our Part
[40:25] - Daniel: A Model of Excellence
[42:29] - Distinguishing Yourself Through God’s Spirit
[45:45] - Unshakable Faith and Decisiveness
[50:43] - Faithfulness Under Pressure
[01:02:05] - The Importance of Wisdom and Learning
[01:09:06] - Using Your Gifts Selflessly
[01:10:53] - The Mindset for Promotion
[01:15:02] - Praying for the Next Level
[01:24:56] - Declaring “Above Only” in Every Area
[01:20:38] - Closing Prayer and Announcements
Study Guide
Small Group Bible Study Guide: “Above Only – Living at the Next Level”
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### Bible Reading
Deuteronomy 28:13 (NKJV)
> “And the Lord will make you the head and not the tail; you shall be above only, and not be beneath, if you heed the commandments of the Lord your God, which I command you today, and are careful to observe them.”
Daniel 1:8 (NKJV)
> “But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king’s delicacies, nor with the wine which he drank; therefore he requested of the chief of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself.”
Daniel 6:3 (NKJV)
> “Then this Daniel distinguished himself above the governors and satraps, because an excellent spirit was in him; and the king gave thought to setting him over the whole realm.”
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### Observation Questions
1. According to Deuteronomy 28:13, what is God’s promise to His people regarding their position in life? What condition is attached to this promise?
2. What specific decision did Daniel make in Daniel 1:8, and why was it significant for his faith?
3. In Daniel 6:3, what set Daniel apart from others in the kingdom, and what was the result of this distinction?
4. The sermon mentioned that Daniel was not a native of Babylon but still rose to a high position. What does this tell us about God’s ability to promote His people regardless of their background? [[43:45]]
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### Interpretation Questions
1. The sermon says, “Our rightful place as believers, through our relationship with Jesus Christ, is to live with a mindset and expectation of continual progress, excellence, and victory.” What does it mean to have an “above only” mindset, and how does it differ from just being content with where you are? [[26:06]]
2. Daniel’s refusal to eat the king’s food was a risk. Why do you think he was willing to take that risk, and what does this teach us about honoring God in difficult situations? [[48:48]]
3. The pastor said, “Challenges and trials are not signs of defeat, but opportunities for the champion within us to emerge.” How can facing challenges actually help us grow in faith and character? [[34:29]]
4. The sermon highlights that Daniel used his gifts not just for himself but to help others and bring glory to God. What does this reveal about the purpose of our talents and skills? [[01:09:06]]
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### Application Questions
1. The sermon emphasized that living “above only” requires both natural diligence and supernatural dependence. In what area of your life do you tend to rely only on your own strength, and how can you invite God’s supernatural help into that area this week? [[28:07]]
2. Think about a recent challenge or setback you’ve faced. How might God be using that situation to reveal the “champion” in you or to grow your faith? [[34:29]]
3. Daniel chose to stand out by maintaining integrity and faithfulness, even when it was risky. Is there a situation in your workplace, school, or family where you feel pressured to blend in or compromise? What would it look like to stand out for God in that situation? [[45:45]]
4. The sermon said, “Excellence and wisdom are not accidental; they are cultivated through intentional pursuit.” What is one practical step you can take this month to grow in knowledge, skill, or spiritual maturity? [[01:02:05]]
5. Daniel used his gifts to serve others and point the glory back to God. Are there gifts or talents you have that you’re not currently using for God’s glory or to help others? What is one way you can start using them this week? [[01:09:06]]
6. The pastor challenged us not to settle for mediocrity or stagnation. Is there an area of your life where you’ve become comfortable or complacent? What would it look like to pursue “the next level” in that area? [[26:06]]
7. The sermon ended with a prayer for God to move us forward. What is one specific area where you are asking God to take you to the next level, and how can your small group pray for you in this? [[01:24:56]]
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Closing Prayer:
Invite the group to pray for the grace to develop an “above only” mindset, to use their gifts for God’s glory, and to move forward into the next level God has prepared for them.
Devotional
Day 1: God’s Promise: You Shall Be Above Only
God has declared that His people are destined to be above only and not beneath, a promise rooted in our relationship with Jesus Christ. This is not a mere wish, but a certainty for those who have surrendered to Christ and walk in His ways. We are called to reject mediocrity and refuse to settle for anything less than the “above only” life God has prepared for us. This means living with the confidence that God Himself is the one who makes us the head and not the tail, and that our proper place is always to rise, progress, and thrive in every area of life. Let this promise shape your mindset and expectations, knowing that God’s word is sure and His desire is for you to move to the next level. [26:06]
Deuteronomy 28:13 (NKJV)
"And the Lord will make you the head and not the tail; you shall be above only, and not be beneath, if you heed the commandments of the Lord your God, which I command you today, and are careful to observe them."
Reflection: In what area of your life have you been settling for less than God’s “above only” promise, and how can you intentionally begin to pursue His higher calling for you today?
Day 2: Living with a Next Level Mindset
To experience the “above only” life, it is essential to develop a mindset that aligns with God’s promises, refusing to let challenges or setbacks define your identity. Like Daniel and the faithful spies, you must see yourself through the lens of God’s word, not through the limitations of your circumstances. This mindset influences your choices, actions, and the way you respond to adversity. When you wake up each day, remind yourself that you are not defeated, but victorious in Christ, and let this conviction guide your decisions and relationships. The next level is not just a destination, but a way of thinking that positions you for God’s best. [37:29]
Romans 12:2 (NKJV)
"And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God."
Reflection: What is one negative thought or belief about yourself that you need to replace with God’s truth today, and how will you remind yourself of your “above only” identity?
Day 3: Unshakable Faithfulness Sets You Apart
Daniel’s life demonstrates that unwavering faithfulness to God, even under pressure or risk, is key to rising above and experiencing God’s favor. He purposed in his heart not to defile himself and maintained his devotion to God through consistent prayer, even when it was outlawed. This kind of faithfulness is not about provoking others, but about genuine commitment to God regardless of the cost. When you choose to honor God above all else, He honors you, brings deliverance, and sets you apart for promotion and blessing. Let Daniel’s example inspire you to stand firm in your convictions and trust God for your victory. [47:13]
Daniel 1:8 (NKJV)
"But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king’s delicacies, nor with the wine which he drank; therefore he requested of the chief of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself."
Reflection: Where are you being tempted to compromise your faith or values, and what specific step can you take today to remain faithful to God?
Day 4: Excellence and Wisdom: Equipping Yourself for Promotion
Daniel distinguished himself through an extraordinary spirit, wisdom, and a commitment to continual learning. He did not rely solely on spiritual gifts but also equipped himself by reading and seeking knowledge, making himself ten times better than his peers. God-given excellence and wisdom set you apart in every sphere—work, school, family—and open doors for promotion. Don’t settle for mediocrity; instead, pursue growth, upgrade your skills, and let the Holy Spirit remind you of what you have learned. Your diligence and pursuit of excellence honor God and position you for the next level. [01:02:49]
Daniel 1:17 (NKJV)
"As for these four young men, God gave them knowledge and skill in all literature and wisdom; and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams."
Reflection: What is one area where you can intentionally grow in knowledge or skill this week to better reflect God’s excellence in your life?
Day 5: Using Your God-Given Gifts Selflessly
Daniel’s willingness to use his God-given gifts for the benefit of others, not just himself, made way for his promotion and the deliverance of many. He did not keep his abilities to himself but sought God’s intervention for the sake of his friends and even those who did not believe. When you selflessly serve others with your talents and skills, you create opportunities for God’s glory to be revealed and for others to acknowledge Him. Your gifts are not just for your own advancement, but to bless your community and point people to God. Be ready to act when you see a need, knowing that God can use your obedience to bring about breakthrough and promotion. [01:09:06]
1 Peter 4:10 (NKJV)
"As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God."
Reflection: Who is one person or group you can serve with your gifts this week, and how will you step out to bless them for God’s glory?
Quotes
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