Titus 2:14

Introduction

• If we are to be zealous for good deeds, we must take the initiative.

Two people who took the initiative:

• David (I Samuel 17)

  • I Samuel 17:32, 37, 47-53 – David took initiative to go out to Goliath.

• Nehemiah (Nehemiah 1-6)

  • Nehemiah 1:1-4 – Nehemiah fasts and prays.

  • Nehemiah 2:5, 15-18 – Nehemiah prepares to work.

  • Nehemiah 4:4-6, 14, 17 – Nehemiah lead the people to work.

  • Nehemiah 6:15 – The wall is completed in 52 days.

How to take the initiative:

• We need to care.

  • Romans 5:8 – God took the initiative in sending Jesus!

  • Acts 17:15-17 – Paul cared for the people enough to begin talking to them.

  • Elie Wiesel (1928-2016) – “Indifference, to me, is the epitome of evil.”

• It helps to get others involved.

  • Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 – Companionship helps!

• We must find the need and act!

  • Luke 10:27-37 – The parable of the good Samaritan. We should be looking for ways to be a neighbor to others!

  • Why not me?