Use Means, but Trust in God
John Piper teaches that believers should work diligently using all means but ultimately place their trust fully in God for both the origin and outcome of their labor.
This sermon focuses on the life of George Muller, highlighting his incredible faith and reliance on God as he cared for thousands of orphans and undertook missionary work. The key lesson emphasized is to work diligently but ultimately trust in God for the success and outcome of our efforts, acknowledging that true glory belongs to God. The message encourages listeners to serve in God's strength, ensuring that He receives all the glory for both the origin and results of their work.
Sermon Outline
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I. Introduction and Example of George Muller
- Overview of Muller's life and ministry
- His reliance on prayer and trust in God for provision
- Inspiration to devise large and liberal things for Christ
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II. The Key Lesson: Work Hard but Trust God
- Work diligently as if everything depends on you
- Do not trust in your labor but in God's blessing
- Examples from Proverbs and Psalms illustrating this principle
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III. Going Beyond Muller: Trusting God for the Origin of Work
- Trust God not only for outcomes but for the strength to work
- Biblical foundation from Philippians and 1 Corinthians
- Serving in the strength God supplies for His glory
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IV. Conclusion and Application
- Encouragement to follow Muller's example
- Praying for God to be the enabler of our work
- Finding joy in serving a kind Master who gets all the glory
Key Quotes
“This is one of the great secrets in connection with successful service of the Lord, to work as if everything depended upon our diligence, and yet not to rest in the least upon our exertions, but upon the blessing of the Lord who alone can cause your efforts to be made effectual.” — John Piper
“Work out your own salvation for it is God who is at work in you to will and to do His good pleasure.” — John Piper
“Let him who serves serve in the strength that God supplies so that in everything, God will get the glory through Jesus Christ to whom belongs the dominion and the glory forever.” — John Piper
Application Points
- Work diligently in your daily tasks but consciously place your trust in God for the results.
- Cultivate a habit of prayer to seek God's strength and blessing in all your endeavors.
- Release the burden of control over both the origin and outcome of your work to God, finding freedom and joy in serving Him.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was George Muller and why is he significant in this sermon?
George Muller was a 19th-century Christian known for founding orphanages and trusting God for provision through prayer without asking for money, serving as a model of diligent work combined with faith.
What does it mean to 'work hard but trust God'?
It means to put forth your best effort in your responsibilities while relying on God for the success and outcome of your work rather than your own strength or plans.
How does prayer relate to trusting God in our work?
Prayer expresses our dependence on God, acknowledging that our efforts alone are insufficient and inviting His blessing and enablement for effective service.
What biblical passages support the sermon's message?
Passages like Proverbs 21:31, Psalm 20:7, Philippians 2:12-13, and 1 Peter 4:11 emphasize preparing and working diligently while ultimately trusting God for the results and strength.
How can believers apply this teaching in daily life?
Believers can work with all their might in their tasks, pray for God's guidance and strength, and release anxiety about outcomes by trusting God to direct and bless their efforts.