Sanctification = Separation

Sanctification means separation unto God. We can’t live for the Lord and live for this world simultaneously.

In better words:

You Can’t Drink with the Devil and Sup with Jesus.
Our lives are meant to be an example to those around us of God’s power, provision, and presence.

If the world can see no difference between us and them, then we’ve failed in our mission to witness the gospel message.

The Book of James tells us, “every good and perfect gift comes from above” (1:17). We can enjoy the blessings God gives us in this life, but our lips should be continually praising Him for the things He brings. Otherwise, we are a prime target for complacency and pride.

Comfort leads to complacency, and complacency leads to apathy. Apathy, in turn, leads to backsliding.

A lack of thankfulness also removes your eyes from the provider and onto yourself. When we think all that we have comes from us, we get lifted up in pride, as Nebuchadnezzar did. And we all know, “pride comes before the fall” (Prov. 16:18).

Nebuchadnezzar spent 7 years in feathers and claws so that God could bring him low and rebuke his pride (Daniel 4:33).

Don’t get so far gone that God has to bring you low to get ahold of you. Serve him now, and thank Him for every provision in your life because all of it comes from him.

Corresponding Sermon: Judy Kay VanHoy 3/21/21 AM