Truths to Live By Part 2

Ephesians 5:15

What is your greatest ability?

What is your greatest responsibility?

"Responsibility is the greatest developer. It builds character. It helps you grow."

"Responsibility is the price of greatness."

We have a culture that desires to accuse and excuse.

1. The RIGHTS mentality.

Our culture says we have the Bill of Rights, but we need to renew the Bill of Responsibilities.

2. The VICTIM mentality.

3. The ENTITLEMENT mentality.

#1. Why should I live a responsible life?

1. Because God is watching me.
Hebrews 4:13 (NCV) "Nothing in all the world can be hidden from God. Everything is open before Him, and to Him, we must explain the way we have lived."
Life is a test of responsibility.
Jesus says, "Take up your cross and follow Me" and "Deny yourself."

#2. What do I do and why am I here?

1. To get to know Jesus Christ as my personal Savior.
"What did you do with what I gave you?"
Romans 14:12 (NLT) "Each of us will have to give a personal account to God."
2. Because others are affected by my life.
Every decision you make affects someone else.
That’s why it’s irresponsible to say, “I can live any lifestyle I want.”
3. I need to be responsible because God rewards it.
Deuteronomy 28:2 (NCV) "You will experience all God's blessings if you obey the Lord."
Matthew 25:29 (NLT) "To those who use well what they are given, even more will be given."

#3. How can I be a more responsible person?

1. By saving money.
Proverbs 21:20 (LB) "The wise man saves for the future, but the foolish man spends whatever he gets."
You live on less than you make.
"It's really simple. I give the first 10% as the tithe back to God. I save 10%, and I live on the other 80%."
Ecclesiastes 7:4 (NLT) "The fool thinks only about having a good time now."
2. By controlling my reactions.
Proverbs 29:11 (GWT) "A fool expresses all his emotions, but a wise person controls them."
Matthew 12:36 (NCV) "People will be responsible for every careless word they've said."
I need to put my mind in gear before I put my mouth in motion.
Romans 12:21 (NLT) “Don’t let evil get the best of you but conquer evil by doing good.”
“God, You take care of this situation.”
3. By guarding my mind.
"As a man thinks in his heart, so is he."
When Satan gives you a thought, it's called temptation.
When God gives you a thought, it's called inspiration.
Proverbs 15:14 (NLT) “A wise person is hungry for truth, while the fool feeds on trash.”
Some of your open minds need to be closed for repairs.
4. By admitting my mistakes.
Hosea 4:4 (NLT) "Don't point your finger at someone else and try to pass the blame!"