HOW TO EAT AN ELEPHANT
How does one approach the monumental task of consuming an elephant? This inquiry arises within the context of our teaching series titled ‘Audacious,’ a season in which it is anticipated that each individual will cultivate the courage to contemplate the magnitude of their aspirations. According to the prophetic insights found in Joel chapter 2, a defining characteristic of the End Times will be the outpouring of the Spirit of God upon all humanity. This divine influence will empower sons and daughters to prophesy, young men to envision the future, and elders to dream profound dreams. The manifestation of the Holy Spirit brings forth a remarkable audacity, enabling believers to embrace boldness in their endeavors. As one engages with the divine presence during this season, it is essential to recognize the influx of spiritual resources that facilitate the ability to tackle life’s challenges and pursue ambitious goals.
In this transformative period, the burdens that may overwhelm others will not have the same effect on those who are anchored in faith. It is a time for believers to aspire to greater heights, to expand their mental horizons to encompass grander dreams and visions. The empowerment provided by God will enable individuals to step confidently into realms of greatness, as the divine shakes both the heavens and the earth. This season is marked by a divine overturning, signaling a shift in circumstances, and it is believed that this is the moment for each person to actively engage with and experience the abundant goodness of the Lord in their lives. In this precious season, may you find the strength and inspiration to pursue your highest aspirations with unwavering faith.
In the pursuit of audacity, one may find themselves either strategizing for recovery or aiming for growth. Regardless of the direction you choose this season, I wish to offer guidance inspired by divine insight, encouraging you to contemplate how one might approach significant challenges. The metaphor of consuming an elephant serves as a reminder that monumental tasks can be tackled incrementally. It is essential to recognize that undertaking substantial endeavors requires careful planning and a gradual approach. The adage of “eating an elephant one bite at a time” underscores the importance of thoroughness and strategic planning, which are vital when navigating large undertakings, whether it be recovering to a previous state or advancing toward a divinely intended future.
As I reflect on the concept of audaciously confronting life’s challenges under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, it becomes evident that many individuals may find themselves in difficult circumstances this season. Some may have experienced significant loss or devastation, and the focus should be on seeking recovery. The biblical figure of Job exemplifies this journey of divine restoration. In the narrative of Job, we witness a man who, despite his initial prosperity, faced a series of calamities that stripped him of his family, wealth, and health. His trials were compounded by the judgments of those around him, yet his story ultimately reveals the possibility of recovery and renewal. I encourage you to delve into the Book of Job, as it offers profound insights into resilience and the hope of restoration amidst adversity.
Life often presents unexpected challenges, and it is common to hear the phrase that life throws us curveballs. However, one must ponder the nature of these occurrences; why is it that we seldom acknowledge the positive turns in life with the same gravity? When someone achieves great success, we do not typically say that life has happened to them, yet when misfortune strikes, we readily attribute it to the whims of life. This narrative suggests a passive acceptance of adversity, but I wish to convey a different message today: it is possible to seek a path of recovery and transformation. For those who have experienced a fruitful year, it is essential to recognize that as we approach the end of this year and look forward to the next, there is an opportunity to collaborate with God in crafting a bold and ambitious plan for growth and empowerment.
As we navigate this season, it is crucial to anchor ourselves in hope, which serves as a steadfast foundation for our souls. This hope is rooted in the divine, as articulated in the scriptures, which remind us that God is the ultimate planner. Romans 8:28 assures us that all things work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose. Similarly, Jeremiah 29:11 emphasizes that God’s intentions are for our welfare, promising a future filled with hope. These words were directed to the Israelites during their time of captivity, illustrating that even in dire circumstances, God has a plan to lead us toward a hopeful future. Thus, as we prepare for what lies ahead, let us embrace faith, hope, and courage, trusting in the divine guidance that will illuminate our path.
The divine intention is to bestow blessings rather than inflict harm; it is designed to expand your horizons rather than constrict them. This plan aims to liberate you rather than confine you, a message that resonates with someone today. It is crucial to grasp that when God articulates a plan, it inherently implies that one must not succumb to complacency or neglect planning in their own life. Engaging your intellect and spirit, with the guidance of the Holy Spirit residing within you, is essential to discern the divine strategy for your current season. The metaphor of consuming an elephant one bite at a time illustrates the importance of breaking down your goals into manageable steps, allowing for a structured approach to achieving them.
For those seeking recovery from adverse circumstances, the pursuit of restoration necessitates a bold and audacious mindset. This principle is exemplified in the narrative of David as recounted in 1 Samuel chapter 30. Prior to this chapter, David had been invited by King Achish to join forces against Israel, a precarious situation given that David was fleeing from King Saul, who sought his life. However, the elders of the land expressed their concerns about David’s loyalty, prompting the king to reconsider. Consequently, David and his 600 men returned home after being denied participation in the battle, only to discover that the Amalekites had devastated their homeland, leaving nothing but destruction in their wake. This account underscores the gravity of responsibility and the unforeseen challenges that can arise even in the midst of strategic planning.
David’s two wives, along with all of his children and the wives and children of his men, were taken captive, leaving behind a scene of utter devastation. The attackers, identified as the Amalekites, had invaded Ziklag, setting the city ablaze and carrying away its inhabitants. Upon their return on the third day, David and his men were met with the grim sight of their city in ruins, with nothing left intact. The loss was profound, as they realized that everything they held dear had been stripped away, leaving them in a state of despair. The situation was dire, and for anyone who has experienced significant loss, David’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the depths of grief one can endure.
In the midst of this turmoil, David found himself in a particularly distressing position, as his men, overwhelmed by their grief, contemplated turning against him. The emotional weight of the moment was palpable, with every man mourning for his own family. However, rather than succumbing to despair, David chose to seek solace and strength in his faith. The biblical account highlights that he “strengthened himself in the Lord his God,” illustrating the importance of turning to a higher power during times of crisis. This act of self-encouragement and reliance on divine support is crucial when planning for recovery and restoration, emphasizing that the first step in overcoming adversity is to find inner strength through faith.
It is essential to recognize that God desires your recovery, and the first step in this journey is to encourage yourself and seek strength in Him. In the biblical narrative, we observe David amidst a profound crisis, surrounded by 600 men who were overwhelmed with grief, crying until they could weep no more. This collective sorrow, while emotionally cathartic, ultimately proved unproductive; it became clear that their tears would not restore what had been lost. Crying may provide temporary emotional relief, but it lacks the tangible substance necessary for true recovery. Instead, it is crucial to transform that emotional release into a physical manifestation of strength, which can only be achieved through a deepening relationship with God.
For those who have faced significant losses, particularly in the tumultuous year of 2020, it is vital to understand that while you may feel as though you have regressed, divine restoration is within reach. The hand of Jehovah is poised to bring about renewal in your life, but this requires proactive engagement on your part. You must devise a plan to uplift yourself in the Lord, much like David did when he found himself isolated and surrounded by despair. In moments when external support is lacking, it is imperative to draw strength from within and from your faith, rather than succumbing to the negativity of those around you. By focusing on your relationship with God, you can cultivate the resilience needed to navigate your challenges and emerge restored.
In moments of crisis, it is common for individuals to seek a scapegoat, often directing their frustrations towards a leader. This tendency can place immense pressure on those in leadership roles, as they are expected to shoulder the blame for adverse circumstances. The weight of responsibility can be overwhelming, particularly for those leading families or businesses. However, it is crucial for leaders to find inner strength and resilience during such challenging times. I encourage you, as the head of your household or organization, to seek divine support and fortitude. In doing so, you will regain your composure and clarity, allowing you to navigate through difficulties with renewed purpose and determination.
David’s experience serves as a powerful example of how to draw inspiration and strength from within. In the biblical account, after finding solace in his faith, he sought guidance through prayer, demonstrating the importance of asking the right questions during times of uncertainty. This process of seeking divine counsel is essential for recovery and planning for future growth. As illustrated in 1 Samuel 30, David’s inquiry to the Lord about pursuing the raiders exemplifies the need for strategic thinking and divine direction in overcoming obstacles. For anyone feeling trapped in despair, it is vital to follow this model of seeking God in prayer, as it can lead to a path of recovery and eventual restoration.
The Amalekites, who had taken everything from David, prompted him to seek divine guidance on whether he should pursue them. In response, the Lord assured him, affirming that he would indeed recover all that had been lost. This exchange highlights the importance of asking the right questions in times of distress. Unlike David, who consulted the priest Abiathar and sought God’s counsel through the ephod, contemporary believers are reminded that they can directly communicate with God. The New Testament teaches that all believers are now considered a royal priesthood, empowered to approach God without the need for an intermediary. While encouragement and prayer from others can be beneficial, it is crucial for individuals to engage in personal dialogue with God, particularly when faced with challenges.
The nature of the questions one poses significantly influences the responses received. Many individuals often find themselves asking unproductive or misguided questions, which can lead to confusion or silence from God. Jesus emphasized that unanswered prayers may stem from asking with selfish motives. David, in his moment of crisis, could have easily succumbed to despair by questioning why he was targeted or if he had offended someone. However, he chose to focus on the actionable inquiries: whether he should pursue the Amalekites, if he would be able to overtake them, and if he would recover all that was lost. By seeking clarity and direction from God, David received a definitive answer: to pursue, overtake, and recover everything. This narrative serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of seeking divine wisdom and asking the right questions in the face of adversity.
It is essential to grasp the narrative surrounding David’s journey as he followed the divine guidance he received. As he advanced with the 600 men accompanying him, they reached a critical juncture at the Brook Besor. At this point, approximately 200 of his men found themselves unable to continue due to exhaustion, as indicated in the biblical text. The scripture notes that David and the remaining 400 men pressed on, leaving behind those who were too weary to cross. This moment serves as a poignant reminder that in the pursuit of one’s goals, particularly those aligned with divine purpose, there will inevitably be individuals who cannot accompany you due to their own limitations. It is crucial to maintain focus on the mission at hand, recognizing that while some may falter, the strength and support you require will still be present.
In the course of David’s pursuit, he demonstrated remarkable resilience, undeterred by the loss of manpower. The fact that he continued with 400 men instead of lamenting the diminished numbers illustrates a profound lesson in faith and determination. When one is guided by divine instruction, the resources at hand, no matter how limited, can be sufficient to achieve the intended outcome. This principle is further exemplified when David and his remaining men encountered an abandoned Egyptian, whom they revived and questioned about the raiders who had caused their distress. This encounter not only highlights the unexpected assistance that can arise in times of need but also underscores the belief that divine help often manifests in unforeseen ways. Thus, it is vital to trust in the journey, knowing that even when support seems scarce, guidance and aid will come from unexpected sources.
He identified them as Amalekites, explaining that he was a slave to one of their members and had come to this location to launch an attack. He requested guidance on the whereabouts of the raiders. This individual, an unknown Egyptian who had been left to perish, ultimately led them to the location of the attackers. Upon arrival, they swiftly engaged the raiders, successfully reclaiming all that had been taken, and as the saying goes, the rest is history. In verses 18 and 19 of 1 Samuel chapter 30, the scripture states that David recovered everything the Amalekites had seized, including the rescue of his two wives. The New Living Translation emphasizes that nothing was lost, whether small or great, son or daughter, or any other possessions. David managed to bring back all that had been taken.
As I address everyone participating in this service today, I declare in the name of Jesus that the same God who guided David to complete restoration will also lead you to your own full recovery in the name of the Lord Jesus. I invite a resounding amen from all present. Now, as we consolidate these thoughts, let us transition to the second aspect, which involves strategizing for growth. As we approach the end of 2020, it is evident that God desires to assist you in your recovery. For those who have been faring well, God encourages you to engage in planning for expansion and increase. In Habakkuk chapter 2, beginning at verse 1, the text reveals the prophet’s commitment to watch and await divine instruction. Verse 2 continues with the Lord’s command to “Write the vision and make it plain on tablets, so that he may run who reads it.” In our contemporary context, we often utilize tablets for writing, akin to the ancient practice. It is imperative to document your plans and visions clearly, ensuring that they are easily understood and actionable for those who encounter them.
The concept of vision is crucial, particularly when considering how it manifests in our lives.
When one is navigating the road, there are specific messages that can be easily comprehended while in motion, which serves as a metaphor for the clarity and boldness required in our pursuits. The analogy of a billboard or a large poster emphasizes the importance of visibility and accessibility in capturing a vision. This is not merely about having a fleeting thought; it is about creating a tangible representation of what one aspires to achieve. The divine intention is for individuals to grasp and internalize the plans that God has for them in this season, as articulated in the scripture. The passage highlights that while the vision may not materialize immediately, it is essential to remain patient and steadfast, for it will ultimately come to fruition.
The essence of God’s message is that He desires to impart a grander vision, one that encompasses growth and expansion. However, this requires active engagement and diligence on our part. Many individuals fall short in their pursuit of understanding divine plans due to a lack of initiative in seeking details, asking pertinent questions, or dedicating time to prayer and reflection. The act of documenting insights and revelations is a testament to one’s commitment to following through on God’s directives. In the context of a church community, testimonies often emerge from individuals who have received a word from God, whether through preaching or personal prayer, and have taken the initiative to record and act upon it. This process of capturing divine inspiration is vital, as it reinforces the belief that God is unwavering in His promises. He is incapable of deceit, and every declaration He makes is imbued with purpose and certainty, ensuring that what He has spoken will indeed come to pass.
When one receives a divine message, it is imperative to not only grasp its essence but also to devise a comprehensive plan to actualize it. This endeavor demands both courage and boldness, as it involves embracing a significant vision bestowed by God and committing to its realization. The metaphor of a tower aptly illustrates this concept; constructing such a monumental structure necessitates careful planning and meticulous attention to detail. This principle is echoed in Luke 14, where the scripture emphasizes the importance of thoughtful preparation before embarking on any substantial undertaking. In this context, Jesus was addressing the cost of discipleship, urging individuals to consider the sacrifices required to follow Him faithfully.
Discipleship, as articulated by Jesus, is fundamentally about cultivating a life that mirrors His teachings and values. To embark on this transformative journey, one must prioritize their relationship with God above all else, as indicated in Luke 14:26. The term “hate” in this passage does not imply animosity but rather signifies a reordering of priorities, placing God at the forefront of one’s life. This aligns with the Great Commandment, which calls for an unwavering love for God, followed by love for others. Therefore, aspiring disciples must develop a strategic plan for personal growth and spiritual enlargement, recognizing that true discipleship involves a commitment to living a life that reflects Christ’s principles and teachings.
The love of God is paramount, which is why it is emphasized that one must prioritize their commitment to the divine above all else.
The term “hate” used in translations is intended to convey the idea of distancing oneself from lesser priorities, rather than fostering animosity. What Christ intended was a call to subordinate personal relationships, including that with one’s spouse, to the overarching authority of the Kingdom of God. This hierarchy is essential, as the Kingdom represents a higher calling and purpose. In verse 27, it is stated that anyone who does not take up their own cross and follow Him cannot truly be His disciple. This notion of discipleship requires a deliberate and thoughtful approach, akin to the process of planning for the construction of a tower. One must first assess the resources and commitment necessary to complete such a task, illustrating the importance of careful consideration in all endeavors.
Furthermore, the analogy of building a tower serves as a reminder that one must not embark on any significant undertaking without a clear plan. Just as one would not attempt to construct a tower without first evaluating the costs, individuals are encouraged to reflect on their aspirations and dreams. The scripture from Habakkuk underscores the necessity of capturing one’s vision and breaking it down into actionable steps. God desires to inspire new visions and dreams, but this requires a willingness to engage in planning. By doing so, one opens the door for divine intervention, allowing God to enhance and exceed those plans beyond imagination. Jesus further illustrates this principle by comparing it to a military leader assessing the strength of their forces before engaging in battle. The message is clear: one must be prepared and willing to reassess their strategies, as true discipleship demands a comprehensive commitment that may require forsaking all else.
In contemplating the theme of growth and expansion, it is essential to adopt a mindset akin to that of a disciple, as emphasized by Jesus. This approach necessitates a thorough understanding of one’s current resources and capabilities. It is imperative to assess what one possesses at this moment, recognizing the gifts and opportunities bestowed by God. Equally important is the identification of deficiencies; one must critically evaluate what is lacking in their current situation. This introspection leads to a deeper understanding of what one must seek from God to complete the picture of their aspirations for growth. Furthermore, it is crucial to determine which priorities may need to be abandoned or downgraded. Many individuals enter new phases of life clinging to outdated priorities, yet true progress often requires the courage to reassess and realign one’s focus.
Moreover, the journey toward enlargement demands an acknowledgment of the sacrifices that may be necessary. Jesus articulated the importance of bearing one’s cross as a prerequisite for discipleship, highlighting that the path to spiritual and personal growth is not without its challenges. While the message of God’s goodness is often emphasized, the reality of sacrifice is frequently overlooked. Those seeking expansion must confront the question of what they are willing to give up in pursuit of their goals. It is vital to recognize that while grace is a gift, it is accompanied by responsibilities and costs that must be embraced. Finally, resilience is paramount; the ability to endure and wait for the fruition of one’s efforts is essential in the pursuit of enlargement. This resilience will fortify individuals as they navigate the complexities of their journey, ensuring they remain steadfast in their commitment to growth.
According to Habakkuk Chapter 2, verse 3, it is emphasized that although the vision may seem delayed, one should remain patient, for it is destined to manifest in due time. It is essential for individuals to revisit the passage from Luke 14, verses 25 to 33, repeatedly, as it conveys a divine message of assistance towards personal growth and expansion. However, this process necessitates active participation; one must engage fully in the journey of transformation. Prioritization is crucial, as understanding one’s current resources and capabilities is vital for effectively harnessing divine power when it arrives. Recognizing the areas where faith is required, identifying deficiencies, and acknowledging the disparity between present circumstances and the envisioned future are all integral to this process.
The approach to planning and achieving goals transcends conventional motivational strategies; it is rooted in a mindset aligned with spiritual principles. Merely applying management techniques without a heart attuned to divine guidance is akin to constructing a foundation on unstable ground, which is susceptible to collapse under pressure. In contrast, when one builds with a focus on God’s intentions and adheres to His divine order—such as embracing the call to carry one’s cross—there is a transformative clarity that emerges. This clarity prompts individuals to evaluate what they must relinquish in pursuit of their aspirations, determining what is no longer significant and what sacrifices they are willing to make for growth. When these elements align, the principles of management can be effectively implemented, as the individual is now prepared to walk in harmony with God, ready to cultivate a lasting legacy.
It is essential to recognize that a transformative shift is occurring, where individuals are transitioning from poverty to what is commonly referred to as the middle class, while others are advancing from middle class status to wealth. Furthermore, some affluent individuals are poised to attain greater levels of wealth as we progress into the forthcoming season. According to Deuteronomy 8:18, it is God who grants the ability to acquire wealth, emphasizing that wealth serves as a means of influence. This divine empowerment is crucial, as wealth does not simply materialize; it is bestowed by God to enable individuals to exert influence. God desires for you to lead a life marked by impact, and achieving this requires divine assistance and grace to take bold steps toward the future He envisions for you.
In this pivotal season, it is imperative to embrace the next steps in your journey, often referred to metaphorically as “eating your elephant.” If you find yourself at the initial stages of your faith, having recently committed your life to Christ, it is time to progress beyond mere acquaintance with God. You are called to evolve into a mature believer or disciple, one who seeks liberation from the constraints that hinder personal growth. This journey towards freedom encompasses liberation from illness, detrimental habits, and any burdens that impede your progress. It is through this pursuit of freedom that you will gain the strength necessary to discern your life’s purpose. When wealth is bestowed upon you, it will be clear that it is intended for meaningful influence, enabling you to make a significant difference in the world. At The Elevation Church, our mission is to guide individuals through the stages of knowing God, achieving freedom from life’s encumbrances, discovering their purpose, and ultimately living a life characterized by impactful contributions and growth.
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