Assumption #4: I just need to give it to the Lord.
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love
him, who have been called according to his purpose. For those God foreknew
he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son, that he might
be the firstborn among many brothers. And those he predestined, he also called;
those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified.
Romans 8:28-30 NIV
1. Our transformation is a process. 2 Corinthians 3:18
2. We must work but it is not us who carries the work to completion.
Philippians 1:6; 2:12-13
3. We are to take an active role in our growth. 1 Timothy 4:15-16;
6:12, Philippians 3:14
False (Passive) Teachings
1. "Position" teaching—You just need to focus on your position in Christ.
He has secured everything for you. If you truly believe your position in
Christ, you will escape from your problems.
a. We must actively go and possess what He has already secured. Numbers
33:51-55
b. We support each other. This is active. Ephesians 4:15-16
2. "Get your eyes off yourself" Teaching—Introspection is self-worship.
a. The Bible does warn against self-worship. Colossians 2:23.
But this pertains to our regarding ourselves as self-sufficient apart from
God.
b. But we are told to examine ourselves. Matthew 7:5.
Only then can we help others.
c. David was introspective, (Psalm 139:23-24) was this wrong?
(see also Psalm 51:6)
d. We should not worship ourselves as humanist’s do, but rather we
ought examine ourselves in a godly manner, so that we may honestly know where
we stand. 1 Corinthians 11:28-31.
Growth and Healing.
1. We see ourselves for what we are and humble ourselves. Isaiah
6:1-5
2. As we come to terms with what we are, then the Lord will lift us
up. James 4:8-10
3. We must continually examine ourselves through confession, cleansing
and repentance.
4. We cannot will healing or growth; like a growing plant, with the
right ingredients, it happens.