Introduction:

"Last Sunday, we revisited the scripture verse for the year 2023, reflecting on the journey of the past year. Today marks the first Sunday service of the year 2024. "As we embark on this new year, we have chosen Joshua 1:8 as the theme verse for our church. Aligning with this fresh start, we aim to contemplate the church verse for this year and set the direction for our church."

Challenges Faced by Joshua:

"Joshua faced significant challenges as he took on the mantle of leadership after the passing of Moses. He witnessed the rebellion of the Israelites against God and Moses. In addition, Joshua must be confronted with formidable adversaries in the Canaanite people, armed with iron chariots, dwelling in impregnable fortresses, and described as giants. Leading the Israelites and waging war for conquest in Canaan presented an overwhelming and daunting task for Joshua. In the face of this seemingly impossible challenge, God provided encouragement to Joshua.

Firstly, there was the promise of God's presence with Joshua (verse 5). Secondly, the assurance of inheriting the land of Canaan as a possession (verse 6). Lastly, God provided strategies for victory (verses 7-8), emphasizing drawing near to His word, meditating on it, and obeying it. Through these actions, prosperity and success would follow. For Joshua to achieve 'prosperity' and 'success' in his mission, the Word was essential. Today, we seek to explore the relationship between the Word, 'prosperity,' and 'success.'"

Therefore, the message title is

 

Be successful through the Word

 

Main Points:

1. Internalize the Word in Your Life:

 

1) Read the Word:

" This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth;”

 

In the era before the advent of printing technology, books were considered precious. To memorize their contents, students would recite verses aloud. Let us imagine where numerous students recited each verse aloud in a spacious area. " This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; “signifies reading God’s word.

2) Meditate on the Word:

"but thou shalt meditate therein day and night,"

 

"In Hebrew, there are three words conveying the concept of meditation. שׂוּחַ 'Suaq' implies silently pondering, as seen in Genesis 24:63. שִׂיחַ 'Siac' involves conversing, complaining, or praying, as reflected in Psalm 119:15. הָגָה 'Haga' is akin to a ruminating animal, engraving the Word on the tablet of the heart and repeatedly reflecting on its meaning."

3) Obey the Word:

" that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein:"

 

"Having meditated, the next step is obedience to the Word. We must live according to what is written, obeying the instructions recorded within. We need to obey the guidance inscribed in the Word, living according to God's plan and making efforts to fulfill His will."

 

2. Experience Success:

Prosperity and success through the Word manifest as we grow and transform trough its teachings. Let us now delve deeper into the principles discussed in Section 1, 'Internalize the Word in Your Life,' within the context of success and prosperity."

The Christian concepts of 'prosperity' and 'success' are intertwined with the teachings.

When a Christian applies the teachings to their life and strives to do their best, 'prosperity' and 'success' always follow.

So, what does the Bible mean by 'prosperity,' and what is 'success' according to the scriptures?

1) Biblical 'Prosperity'

"Prosperous" is translated from the Hebrew word " (צָלַח - tzalach)."

This word means 'to advance, 'to show,' 'to make a way,' 'to experience,' 'to achieve.'

Biblical prosperity is when the Holy Spirit works alongside the teachings.

The Holy Spirit shows, makes a way, and guides us on the path of life when we follow the guidance of the Holy Spirit working with the words.

Obedience to God's sovereign guidance, reaching the place God aims and plans for, is what the Bible refers to as 'prosperity.

2) Biblical 'Success'

'Success' is translated from the Hebrew word " (שָׂכַל - sakal)."

This word means 'to act wisely,' 'to understand,' 'to give inspiration,' 'to teach.'

Knowing God through 'prosperity' is 'success.'

Knowing oneself through 'prosperity' is 'success.'

 

3. Application Examples

Example 1:

Word (Luke 5:4)

"Launch out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch."

Prosperity (Luke 5:5~6) –

Following Jesus' words, Simon let down the nets and caught a large number of fish.

Success (Luke 5:8)

Simon Peter acknowledges the success and worships Jesus, confessing his own sinful nature.

Example 2:

Word (Matthew 14:29) “Come."

Prosperity and Success (Matthew 14:33) - The disciples, seeing Peter walking on water, worship Jesus and confess that He is truly the Son of God.

 

Conclusion:

"As we commence a new year, each of us has embraced a personal verse. for the church. Through these verses, we hold onto God's Word, responding to challenges with the expectation of experiencing 'prosperity' and 'success' in the coming year. Anticipating deeper spiritual growth and collective church development throughout this journey, we look forward to the shared experience of 'success' and 'prosperity.'