Principles for Achieving Divine Settlement in Faith
Summary
In today's gathering, we explored the theme of "Do's and Don'ts for Your Divine Settlement." We began by acknowledging the privilege of being in God's presence and the transformative power it holds. The essence of divine settlement lies in aligning our actions with God's will, which involves both doing what is right and avoiding what is wrong. We revisited key principles such as loving and serving God on His terms, giving cheerfully, forgiving others, and maintaining faith. Worship must be balanced, done in spirit and truth, to truly honor God.
A significant focus was placed on the importance of prayer. We are reminded to "watch and pray" to avoid falling into temptation. Prayer is not just a ritual but a powerful tool to overcome challenges and align ourselves with God's will. The story of Daniel, who prayed three times a day despite adversities, serves as a powerful example of the discipline and commitment required for divine settlement. Similarly, David's reliance on God in times of distress highlights the importance of seeking divine guidance.
We also discussed the necessity of engaging with God's Word. Intentional reading, studying, and meditating on the Bible are crucial for spiritual growth and success. The Word of God is a source of wisdom and guidance, and it is through obedience to it that we find true prosperity.
Furthermore, we emphasized the need to walk in the Spirit, seek godly counsel, and put on the full armor of God. These practices equip us to stand firm against the adversary's schemes and ensure that we are not swayed by worldly influences. The armor of God provides spiritual protection and strength, enabling us to face life's battles with confidence.
In conclusion, divine settlement is a journey that requires intentionality, discipline, and a deep relationship with God. By adhering to these principles, we position ourselves to receive God's blessings and fulfill our divine purpose.
Key Takeaways:
1. Prayer as a Shield Against Temptation: Prayer is not merely a routine but a strategic defense against temptation. By actively watching and praying, we align ourselves with God's will and gain strength to resist sin. This intentionality in prayer helps us avoid falling into temptation and keeps us spiritually vigilant. [39:03]
2. The Power of Consistent Prayer: Daniel's example of praying three times a day, despite being in a foreign land, underscores the importance of a disciplined prayer life. Consistency in prayer fosters a deep connection with God and invites His intervention in our lives, leading to divine settlement. [47:46]
3. Engaging with God's Word: The Bible is a vital source of wisdom and guidance. By intentionally reading, studying, and meditating on it, we align ourselves with God's truth, which leads to prosperity and success. The Word of God is a foundation for divine settlement. [55:30]
4. Walking in the Spirit and Seeking Godly Counsel: To be divinely settled, we must walk in the Spirit and seek godly wisdom. This involves surrounding ourselves with positive influences and avoiding ungodly counsel. God's guidance ensures that we make wise decisions and remain on the path of righteousness. [01:08:50]
5. Putting on the Full Armor of God: Spiritual warfare requires us to be fully equipped with the armor of God. This armor provides protection against the enemy's attacks and empowers us to stand firm in our faith. By drawing strength from God, we can overcome challenges and achieve divine settlement. [01:12:11]
Youtube Chapters:
- [00:00] - Welcome
- [35:20] - Introduction to Divine Settlement
- [39:03] - The Importance of Watching and Praying
- [44:33] - Repeated Emphasis on Prayer
- [47:46] - Daniel's Consistent Prayer Life
- [50:02] - The Role of Prayer in Divine Intervention
- [53:17] - Engaging with God's Word
- [55:30] - The Key to Success and Prosperity
- [58:19] - Sacrifices for Divine Settlement
- [01:02:00] - God's Reasonable Invitation
- [01:05:39] - David's Inquiry and God's Response
- [01:08:50] - Walking in the Spirit and Seeking Counsel
- [01:12:11] - The Full Armor of God
- [01:15:07] - Trusting God in Challenges
- [01:18:48] - Testimony of Faith and Provision
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide: Do's and Don'ts for Your Divine Settlement
Bible Reading:
1. Matthew 26:41 - "Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak."
2. Daniel 6:10 - "Now when Daniel learned that the decree had been published, he went home to his upstairs room where the windows opened toward Jerusalem. Three times a day he got down on his knees and prayed, giving thanks to his God, just as he had done before."
3. Joshua 1:8 - "Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful."
---
Observation Questions:
1. What does Matthew 26:41 suggest about the relationship between prayer and temptation? How does this align with the sermon’s emphasis on prayer as a defense against temptation? [39:03]
2. How did Daniel's consistent prayer life, as described in Daniel 6:10, demonstrate his commitment to God despite external pressures? [47:46]
3. According to Joshua 1:8, what are the steps to achieving prosperity and success, and how does this relate to engaging with God's Word as discussed in the sermon? [55:30]
4. What role does the full armor of God play in spiritual warfare, as mentioned in the sermon, and how is this supported by Ephesians 6:10-11? [01:12:11]
---
Interpretation Questions:
1. How does the sermon interpret the phrase "watch and pray" in Matthew 26:41, and what practical steps can believers take to implement this in their daily lives? [39:03]
2. In what ways does Daniel's prayer routine in Daniel 6:10 serve as a model for believers seeking divine settlement, and what challenges might they face in maintaining such a routine? [47:46]
3. How does the sermon explain the connection between meditating on God's Word and achieving success, as outlined in Joshua 1:8? What might this look like in a believer's life today? [55:30]
4. What insights does the sermon provide about the importance of seeking godly counsel and walking in the Spirit, and how does this relate to the concept of divine settlement? [01:08:50]
---
Application Questions:
1. Reflect on your current prayer life. How can you incorporate the discipline and intentionality of Daniel's prayer routine into your own life? What specific changes will you make this week? [47:46]
2. Consider a recent situation where you faced temptation. How might a more vigilant prayer life, as suggested in Matthew 26:41, have helped you navigate that situation differently? [39:03]
3. Identify one area of your life where you feel unsettled. How can engaging more deeply with God's Word, as encouraged in Joshua 1:8, provide guidance and clarity in that area? [55:30]
4. Think about the influences in your life. Are there any ungodly counsels you need to distance yourself from? How can you seek out more godly wisdom and counsel this week? [01:08:50]
5. What steps can you take to put on the full armor of God daily, as described in Ephesians 6:10-11, to better equip yourself for spiritual battles? [01:12:11]
6. Reflect on a time when you felt overwhelmed by life's challenges. How can the principles of divine settlement discussed in the sermon help you approach similar situations in the future? [01:15:07]
7. How can you make your relationship with God more personal, as Daniel did, and what impact might this have on your spiritual journey? [50:02]
Devotional
Day 1: Prayer as a Strategic Defense
Prayer is a powerful tool that goes beyond mere routine; it serves as a strategic defense against temptation. By actively engaging in prayer, individuals align themselves with God's will, gaining the strength needed to resist sin. This intentionality in prayer fosters spiritual vigilance, helping believers avoid falling into temptation. The act of "watching and praying" is a proactive approach to maintaining a strong spiritual connection with God, ensuring that one's actions are guided by divine wisdom. [39:03]
Matthew 26:41 (ESV): "Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak."
Reflection: Identify a specific temptation you face regularly. How can you incorporate prayer into your daily routine to help you resist this temptation?
Day 2: The Discipline of Consistent Prayer
The story of Daniel exemplifies the power of a disciplined prayer life. Despite being in a foreign land and facing adversities, Daniel remained committed to praying three times a day. This consistency in prayer not only deepened his connection with God but also invited divine intervention in his life. By following Daniel's example, believers can cultivate a disciplined prayer life that leads to divine settlement and spiritual growth. [47:46]
Daniel 6:10 (ESV): "When Daniel knew that the document had been signed, he went to his house where he had windows in his upper chamber open toward Jerusalem. He got down on his knees three times a day and prayed and gave thanks before his God, as he had done previously."
Reflection: Consider your current prayer habits. What steps can you take to establish a more consistent and disciplined prayer routine?
Day 3: Engaging with God's Word for Prosperity
Engaging with God's Word is essential for spiritual growth and success. The Bible serves as a vital source of wisdom and guidance, and by intentionally reading, studying, and meditating on it, believers align themselves with God's truth. This alignment leads to prosperity and success, as obedience to God's Word lays the foundation for divine settlement. The transformative power of Scripture is evident in the lives of those who prioritize it. [55:30]
Joshua 1:8 (ESV): "This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success."
Reflection: What specific steps can you take this week to deepen your engagement with God's Word, and how might this impact your daily life?
Day 4: Walking in the Spirit and Seeking Godly Counsel
To achieve divine settlement, it is crucial to walk in the Spirit and seek godly counsel. This involves surrounding oneself with positive influences and avoiding ungodly advice. By seeking God's guidance and wisdom, believers can make wise decisions and remain on the path of righteousness. Walking in the Spirit ensures that one's actions are aligned with God's will, leading to spiritual growth and fulfillment. [01:08:50]
Galatians 5:16 (ESV): "But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh."
Reflection: Who are the people in your life that provide godly counsel? How can you intentionally seek their guidance in a current decision you are facing?
Day 5: Equipping Yourself with the Armor of God
Spiritual warfare requires believers to be fully equipped with the armor of God. This armor provides protection against the enemy's attacks and empowers individuals to stand firm in their faith. By drawing strength from God, believers can overcome challenges and achieve divine settlement. The armor of God is essential for facing life's battles with confidence and resilience, ensuring spiritual victory. [01:12:11]
Ephesians 6:11-13 (ESV): "Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm."
Reflection: Reflect on the different pieces of the armor of God. Which piece do you feel you need to strengthen in your life, and what practical steps can you take to do so?
Quotes
Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The amplifies it. So keep actively watching. Which is continuous. Amen. Keep actively watching and praying that you may not come into temptation. The spirit is willing but the body is weak. You know, often times we quote the B part of the verse when we want to use that as an excuse or we want to hide behind it to do things that we want. [00:39:40] (36 seconds)
But we forget that the beginning part you know, gives us a caution or a warning or an instruction which if we follow then you know, we will be able to allow the spirit to have a free flow to work in our life. Praise the Lord. So it says watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. Which means that your prayer will help you you know, overcome temptation. Your prayer will help you to prevent some temptation. Your prayer will make it you know, easy for you not to fall into temptation. Falling into temptation means sinning. [00:40:15] (51 seconds)
Daniel made an intentional decision to live a life that pleases God. And for that matter, always calling on God. Even to the point that when a decree, some people conspired against him and they made the king to sign a decree to stop him from praying because Daniel's power was in the prayer. So the enemy sought to stop him from praying. And as we are saying here, it is not as if because the decree was signed or Daniel saw that problem was coming before he started to pray. But what we have been saying, that was his custom. [00:46:06] (43 seconds)
If you want to be divinely settled, you must develop a continuous prayer life. Amen. A daily prayer life. Daniel prayed three times a day. And mind you, he was made a governor. He was not in a foreign land. He could have had all the excuses and the reasons why he couldn't pray because he was not in Jerusalem. He was under a king who does not believe in the God of Daniel. So Daniel could have had a fine excuse not to pray. But he still made sure that no matter the consequences, I need to pray. [00:47:14] (49 seconds)
Let prayer be an important part of your life. Because that is what helped the people of old that we read about, that God used, that we read about their testimonies. That is what helped them. They always go into prayer. Daniel prays three times a day. How many times do you pray in a day? Praise the Lord. And watch this. It didn't tell us time. It's not so much about time. You know, and I believe that the Bible is also mentioned that three times to let us know that it takes some discipline. [00:48:03] (42 seconds)
Because for you to be consistent at something every day, three times a day, it takes a whole lot of discipline. Looking at the kind of world we live in, you have to wake up, you have to go to work or go to school, you have to do something. Always busy. You can have a fine excuse and justification why you cannot make time to pray. But Daniel still made time to pray. Hallelujah. That's what saved him from the lion's name. Prayer. Putting God first. [00:48:46] (36 seconds)
Intentionally make time to read and study the Bible. Meditate and obey. Amen. Intentionally. Intentionally. Intent is very important. Listen. If God was going to use, if God is going to use the privileges of the generations to judge, I think we will be in big trouble. Because this generation will have no excuse. Because you can have the Bible everywhere and anywhere. On your phone. All the electronic devices. There are so many messages on YouTube and all the social media. Everywhere. Unless you don't want it. [00:51:19] (51 seconds)
Joshua chapter 1 verse 8. This book of the law shall not depart from your mouth. But you shall read and meditate on it day and night. So that you may be careful to do everything in accordance with all that is written in it. For then, for then, hallelujah. He says, for then, you will make your way prosperous. So, when I am praying that God prosper my ways, the scripture is telling me that, for God to prosper my ways, I must pay attention to his word. [00:54:14] (44 seconds)
If you want to be divinely settled. Seek, first of all, walk in the spirit, seek right counsel, which means right advice, and godly wisdom. It's very important. Because those are the things that will help you to be alert. Those are the things that will equip you. Not to be ignorant of the devices of the enemy. So walk in the spirit. Seek right counsel and godly wisdom. [01:07:32] (31 seconds)
Put on the full armor of God. Tell somebody, put on the full armor of God. Put on the full armor of God. Why is it important? It is important because the enemy is shooting arrows against us. The enemy is targeting us to bring us down. The enemy is doing anything to make sure that we crash. So, you will need to do what? Put on the whole armor of God. The full armor of God. [01:12:11] (33 seconds)
And when you take time to read Ephesians 6, it outlines what the armor of God is. I'm not going to go into all of that. So, take your time to read that. So, put on the full armor of God for His precepts are like the splendid armor of the heavily armed soldier so that you may be able to successfully stand against all the schemes of all the schemes and the strategies and the deceits of the devil. praise God. [01:14:06] (33 seconds)