0278. SUBMIT YOURSELVES TO GOD.

SUBMIT YOURSELVES TO GOD.

Jam_4:6-7.

Man, away from God, is represented as an enemy and a rebel.

I. What is not Submission. A man has not submitted to God as long as he is-

1. In A State of Indifference. Like Gallio, caring for none of these things (Act_18:17).

2. Living only for Self. Desiring his own praise and honour.

3. Seeking to Please Men. Satisfied with an outward appearance.

4. Loving the World. If the world is in the heart, it is still an enemy to God.

II. To Whom we Should Submit. To God.

1. Because He hath made us. Our Creator.

2. Because He hath sent His Son to save us (Joh_3:16).

3. Because He hath given His Spirit to quicken and comfort us.

4. Because He hath given His Word to guide and assure us.

III. What is to be Submitted. "Yourselves." This implies-

(1) Your will and affections. (2) Your time and talents. (3) Your plans and purposes. (4) Your pleasures and possessions. (5) Your cares and anxieties.

IV. Why you Ought to Submit. "Submit therefore" (Mat_25:7)-

1. Because God resisteth the proud-setteth Himself against those who rebel against Him. It is vain to hope to succeed in the face of a resisting God.

2. Because God giveth grace to the humble. Those who submit will receive grace sufficient to pardon, to reconcile, to keep, to satisfy, and to bring into the presence of His glory (Psa_138:6).

Autor: James Smith