Live Smart: Learn How to Die Smart

Live Smart: Learn How to Die Smart 
Rev. Sara Pyon

 I. Four Samaritan Lepers (2 Kings 7:3-9)
Samaria under siege by the Arameans
Severe famine in the land (6:26-29)
“If they spare us, we live; if they kill us, then we die.” (7:4)
Result: Saved the Jews living in Samaria from starvation

 II. Queen Esther (Esther 4:12-16)
Haman’s plot to destroy the Jews (3:5-6)
Uncle Mordecai ‘s challenge (4: 13-14)
“If you keep silent . . . you and your father’s family will perish”
Opportunity to live out your eternal destiny: “For such a time as this”
“If I perish, I perish.” (v. 16)
Result: Saved the Jews living throughout entire Persia from annihilation

 III. Apostle Paul (Philippians 1:20-24)
Paul in a Roman prison
Other believers motivated  to speak more courageously and fearlessly (v. 14)
“For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain” (v. 21)
Result: Saved many people throughout the history from going to hell

 IV. You and I (Acts 29)
Is the reward worth the risk?  Absolutely!
“Following Christ is not sacrificial as much as it is smart” (David Platt)

 V. Application:
What is the most risky thing you’ve ever attempted in your life?  How did it turn out?  Do you regret having taken that risk?  Why or why not?
What is the biggest fear you have of living a radical life for Christ?  What are you most afraid of losing?  1 Peter 1:17 says, “Since you call on a Father who judges each person’s work impartially, live out your time as foreigners here in reverent fear.”  Do you have this reverent fear of God?  How is it manifested in your life?
In what way do you sense God is calling you to trust and follow Him wholeheartedly? What risk would you have to take if you were to obey Him?  Are you willing to take that risk?  Why or why not?