Therefore, Choose
The sermon emphasizes the importance of choosing between the spiritual and earthly and the impact of our preferences on our destiny and relationship with God.
A.B. Simpson emphasizes the daily choices individuals make between spiritual and earthly pursuits, highlighting that these choices reflect our true preferences and align us with either Christ or the world. He illustrates this with Solomon's choice for wisdom, which stemmed from a genuine desire in his heart, leading to God's abundant blessings. Simpson challenges listeners to examine their own choices and intentions, asking whether they prioritize being God's children and seeking His favor over worldly desires. Ultimately, he warns that our choices determine our destiny, urging a commitment to spiritual priorities.
Text
Men are choosing every day the spiritual or earthly. And as we choose we are taking our place unconsciously with the friends of Christ or the world. It is not merely what we say; it is what we prefer. When Solomon made his great choice at Gibeon, God said to him, Because this was in thine heart . . . to ask wisdom, . . . wisdom and knowledge is granted unto thee; and I will give thee riches, and wealth, and honour, such as none of the kings have had that have been before thee (2 Chronicles 1:11-12). It was not merely that he said it because it was right to say and would please God if he said it.
But it was the thing his heart preferred, and God saw it in his heart and gave it to him, along with riches, wealth and honor that he had not chosen.
What are we choosing? it is our choice that settles our destiny. It is not how we feel, but how we purpose. Have we chosen the good part? Have we said, "Whatever else I am or have, let me be God's child; let me have His favor and blessing; let me please Him?" Or have we said, I must have this thing, and then I will see about religion?" Alas, God has seen what was in our hearts, and perhaps He has already said, "They have their reward."
Sermon Outline
- The Choice Before Us
- Solomon's Great Choice
- The Choice That Sets Our Destiny
- Choosing the Good Part
- Pleasing God is the key to a blessed life
- We must choose God's favor and blessing above all else
Key Quotes
“It is not merely what we say; it is what we prefer.” — A.B. Simpson
“What are we choosing? it is our choice that settles our destiny.” — A.B. Simpson
“Have we chosen the good part? Have we said, 'Whatever else I am or have, let me be God's child; let me have His favor and blessing; let me please Him?'” — A.B. Simpson
Application Points
- We must be intentional about choosing God's favor and blessing above all else.
- Our preferences determine our destiny, so we must choose wisely.
- Pleasing God is the key to a blessed life, and it starts with our heart's preference.