WEDNESDAY'S WORD - INITIATIVE - SADELL BRADLEY 06/10/15 - NEW LIFE COVENANT CINCINNATI

Initiative is the ability to assess and initiate things independently. It is the power  to act or to take charge before others do; an act or strategy intended to resolve a difficulty or improve a situation.  Initiative is a fresh approach to something.  To initiate is to cause a process or action to begin.  As we look at our own situations and circumstances, the caption on this photo rings true, "If you don't take a chance, you don't stand a chance!"  Taking initiative means someone has to begin, someone has to DO something. Why not you?

Isaiah had a revelation of the Lord at His throne that changed him completely. (Isa. 6) He saw both the Holiness of God and His own sinfulness and impure speech. The Lord took a live coal and touched his mouth to atone for his unclean lips, because God had a greater call in mind for Isaiah.  The Lord was not so concerned with what was wrong with him; He could handle that!  He was intent on commissioning Isaiah - despite his faults, for prophetic service. In the presence of the Lord, Isaiah heard God ask, "Whom shall I send? and who will go for us?" Immediately Isaiah emphatically took the initiative to volunteer for the task. "Here am I. Send me!" (vs. 8) Isaiah didn't know exactly what he was signing up for...he was overwhelmed by the presence of God and just had a holy 'YES'. Has that ever happened to you?

David on the other hand, knew exactly the challenge before him, the cost that was on the line, and the potential reward in defeating the giant Goliath. (1 Samuel 17) Despite 40 days of stalling by the terrified army of Israel, including his brothers, and their mocking that he was: too insignificant, too proud and presumptuous, and needed to stay with his few sheep in the wilderness - David was undaunted.  He was unaffected by Saul's dismissal of him because of his youth.  He was not intimidated by the stature, fighting experience, or threats of Goliath because He knew the Lord was on his side.  So while everyone else waited and procrastinated to see who (other than them) would fight the fight...David took the initiative to act! Ultimately, by the power of God in synergy with the skills he had developed as a shepherd boy, he defeated the 'giant' problem with great dexterity, even though all the odds were stacked against him.  He independently took charge when others fainted.

  God is calling us to stop spectating and take initiative!  To get away from the stands and into the game. Jesus has handled our sins at the cross! and He will give grace and power to compensate for our limitations and inexperience! So get off your duff and act!!