Avoid Foolishness with God's Help (Message to Women) -- Annie Poonen -- November 17, 2021
Also in
http://rlcf.church/media/sermons/avoid-foolishness-with-gods-help River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The message emphasizes that godly wisdom, characterized by peace, gentleness, and mercy, is essential for building a life that endures, contrasting it with the destructive nature of folly. The speaker warns that even small, seemingly insignificant acts of foolishness can gradually damage one's life, much like small foxes destroying a garden. Ultimately, the talk urges listeners to constantly seek God's wisdom and remain close to Him to avoid the pitfalls of worldly thinking.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Godly wisdom versus earthly wisdomProverbs and James contrast the pure, peaceable wisdom from above with earthly wisdom, which God calls demonic when jealousy and selfish ambition are present.
How folly tears down a houseUnlike building strong pillars that require hard work, folly easily tears down a house from within through small, unaddressed compromises, much like little foxes destroying a garden.
Lessons from Eve's four acts of follyEven though Eve was created perfectly, she failed to seek God during rest time, listened to Satan's voice and doubts, convinced her husband to join her, and later failed to properly train her older son Cain.
Recognizing modern satanic tacticsJust as Satan deceived Eve, he now uses modern tactics like the internet, social media, and gadgets to enter homes and destroy children, requiring parents to be far more vigilant.
The foolish response of Job's wifeWhen severe tragedy and painful sickness struck Job, his wife reacted with bitter impatience, telling him to curse God and die, whereas Job kept his integrity and did not sin with his lips.
The faith and protective wisdom of Moses' parentsMoses' parents trusted God in a time when Hebrew baby boys were ordered to be killed, hiding him by faith and carefully training their children to guard family privacy.
The basket of prayer and Miriam's discretionMoses' mother waterproofed a basket with meticulous care, representing the constant prayer needed to protect children from the world's poison, while Miriam showed remarkable discretion when speaking to Pharaoh's daughter.
Training children to choose God over the worldMoses was trained to remember he belonged to God's family rather than Egypt's palace, leading him to later choose the reproach of Christ and live by seeing Him who is invisible.
Practical steps to put away follyBelievers must respect every word of God as a loving command, reject Satan's doubts, stay close to God and their husbands, and diligently train their children rather than letting the world influence them.
Discretion regarding social media and privacyChildren must be taught discretion regarding private family matters, and parents should exercise extreme caution with social media to prevent discontentment and protect against online predators.
Remaining focused and guarding hospitalityMothers must stay focused on watching for spiritual dangers in their children without becoming obsessed, avoid spreading themselves too thin, and set wise boundaries around hospitality.
Keeping oneself from idolsConcluding with the final verse of 1 John, the speaker urges believers to keep themselves from earthly idols and from folly, closing in a prayer for the Holy Spirit's guidance.
