Young People's Group

Applying Grace through Having Biblical Mindsets

by Mitchell Tan
July 27, 2017

APPLICATION OF THE GRACE OF GOD

Humility is vital in learning to depend on the abundant grace of the Lord Jesus. The Lord grants us His grace when we humbly rely on it. Our challenge is to exercise faith by diligently seeking it and applying it to our life. The Lord’s grace can be applied as we endure hardship with the strong mindset of a good soldier. Grace can be further applied when we also seek to have the mindsets of a disciplined athlete and a hardworking farmer.

THE MINDSET OF A DISCIPLINED ATHLETE

“And also, if anyone competes in athletics, he is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules.”
2 Timothy 2:5

1. OBEDIENCE TO THE RULES

The athlete who seeks to win the crown must follow the rules of the game. If he disobeys the rules, he would be disqualified. Obedience to the rules is key to competing well. Paul had taught many Biblical principles to Timothy that he needed to obey. It takes a focused mindset to do them.

2. DISCIPLINING ONESELF TO TRAIN WELL

It takes discipline in training to compete according to the rules. Paul had also written of how the person competing for the prize must be temperate in all things (1 Corinthians 9:24-27). He has to discipline his body and to bring it under subjection so that he may not be disqualified. The challenge for the servant of God is not to take shortcuts in his service for the Lord.

THE MINDSET OF A HARDWORKING FARMER

“The hardworking farmer must be first to partake of the crops.”
2 Timothy 2:6

1. IT TAKES DILIGENCE

It takes hard work to be a good farmer. The word “hardworking” comes from the Greek word “kopiaó”. It means to toil and to labour hard. The farmer has to diligently rise up early in the morning to vigorously work till late at night. Whether it is our studies or work, let’s learn to work diligently.

2. IT TAKES PATIENCE

Not only is a farmer hardworking, he also has to have the patience to wait for the fruits to come. The process of bearing fruit cannot be hurried. It will take time. A patient farmer will be the first to taste of the first fruits of his crop. The challenge is to find the grace and strength to wait. A servant of God can work hard in the ministry. Like a farmer, he has to also wait for the fruition of his work.

SEEKING UNDERSTANDING IN ALL THINGS

“Consider what I say, and may the Lord give you understanding in all things.”
2 Timothy 2:7

Grace is also needed to have understanding from the Lord. Paul challenged Timothy to fully think through all that he had written. If there was any lack in understanding, he should seek the Lord for it and He will give enlightenment. Young people, let’s also ponder all that Paul had written and may He grant us the ability to piece things together.

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