Pointing The way home

Home For The Holidays – Part 1

December 5/6, 2009

Pastor Michael Rochelle

At Home With God

“Lord, through all the generations you have been our home!” Psalm 90:1 (NLT)

Inviting Others Home

“...How long will you wander before you come home?” Jeremiah 31:22a (NCV)

“...Go everywhere and announce the message of God’s good news to one and all.” Mark 16:15 (Message)

Benefits of Pointing The Way Home

Those wandering will find their faith.

It enhances my prayer life.

It aids in my worship.

It improves my Bible study.

How To Point Others To The Way Home

1. Have a tenacious love for people who are far from God.

“But God is so rich in mercy; He loved us so much that even though we were spiritually dead and doomed by our sins, He gave us back our lives again when He raised Christ from the dead – only by His undeserved favor have we ever been saved….” Ephesians 2:4-5 (TLB)

Application: Beware of developing an us vs. them mentality.

2. Meet people's practical needs in the name of Jesus.

“…Your light must shine before people, so that they will see the good things you do and give praise to your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:16 (TEV)

Application: Look for ways to show your faith, not just share it.

3. Make the most out of every oppurtunity to point people toward God.

“Make the most of your chances to tell others the Good News. Be wise in all your contacts with them.” Colossians 4:5 (TLB)

Application: Ask God each day to open your heart to make a difference for Him and for the courage to follow through.

Simple Directions To Help Point People Home

1. STOP long enough for people to come into focus.

"Jesus stopped in His tracks….[and] said, ‘What can I do for you?’” Mark 10:49,51 (Message)

2. LOOK for specific ways to point people toward God.

“Jesus looked him hard in the eye – and loved him!” Mark 10: 21(a) (The Message)

3. LISTEN for God's guidance in reaching out to others.

“My sheep listen to My voice I know them, and they follow Me.” John 10:27 (NIV)