Handbook of Bible ApplicationTyndale House Publishers, Inc
What are God’s guidelines for effective living?BIBLE READING: 1 Kings 4:1-28
KEY BIBLE VERSE: There were also twelve officials of Solomon’s court—one man from each tribe—responsible for requisitioning food from the people for the king’s household. Each of them arranged provisions for one month of the year. (1 Kings 4:7 , tlb)
Effectiveness is a by-product of order. Solomon was well organized, with eleven chief officials with specific responsibilities and twelve district governors, and a manager in charge of the district officers. Each person had a specific responsibility or territory to manage. This organization was essential to maintain the government’s effectiveness: it was a wise move by a wise man. It is good stewardship to be well organized. Good organization helps people work together in harmony and insures that the desired goal will be reached.
BIBLE READING: 2 Kings 1:1-18
KEY BIBLE VERSE: Once more the king sent fifty men, but this time the captain fell to his knees before Elijah and pleaded with him, “O man of God, please spare my life and the lives of these, your fifty servants.” (2 Kings 1:13 , tlb)
Effective living is based on a humble regard for God. Notice how the third captain went to Elijah. Although the first two captains called Elijah “man of God,” they were not being genuine—God was not in their hearts. The third captain also called him “man of God,” but he humbly begged for mercy. His attitude showed respect for God and his power and saved the lives of his men. Effective living begins with a right attitude toward God. Before religious words come to your mouth, make sure they are from your heart. Let respect, humility, and servanthood characterize your attitude toward God and others.
BIBLE READING: Acts 1:1-11
KEY BIBLE VERSE: But when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, you will receive power to testify about me with great effect, to the people in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth, about my death and resurrection. (Acts 1:8 , tlb)
Effectiveness is based on God’s power and timing. Jesus instructed his disciples to witness to people of all nations about him. But they were told to wait first for the Holy Spirit. God has important work for you to do for him, but you must do it by the power of the Holy Spirit. We often like to get on with the job, even if it means running ahead of God. But waiting is sometimes part of God’s plan. Are you waiting and listening for God’s complete instructions, or are you running ahead of his plans? We need God’s timing and power to be truly effective.
