Sunday Morning Series - Hope That Does Not Waver - Gapology

Text: Various

If you look up "Gapology" in the dictionary, you won't find it. I made it up. It's the study of that period between something God has given or made and the fulfillment in our lives.

An example of the gap is Abraham. Between the time God told Abraham he was the father of many nations and the birth of Isaac, 24 years elapsed.

God gave us food, but it doesn't appear in our house. Effort is required on our part. We either have to grow the food or purchase it from someone who does. (Genesis 1:29, Genesis 9:3).

God also gave the Israelites land, but they were required to possess it. (Numbers 33:51-53, Deut. 9:23, Joshua 1:3, Joshua 24:13). Israel failed on their first attempt to possess the land. Even though God said it belonged to them, they thought they were unable to possess it. The gap was made longer because they refused to believe the promise given by God.

Key point: If God promised you something, it's yours whether you have it or not.

David didn't have an easy road growing up. When the prophet, Samuel, came to his father's house to anoint the future king of Israel, David wasn't called to stand before him. After God said, "no," to his seven brothers, Samuel asked Jesse if he had any other sons. When Jesse told Samuel his youngest son was with the sheep, Samuel ordered them to bring him home.

Even though his father and brothers viewed him as a storyteller, David never gave up. He believed God when the prophet said he'd be king. He never focused on his deficiences. There was a big gap between the time he was anointed king by Samuel and the fulfillment of the prophecy.

The Israelites looked at the areas where they fell short. It cost them:

C Calling

O Opportunity

S Strength

T Talent

Will you trust God during the gap between promise and fulfillment?

To hear this message in its entirety, check out our website Sermon Player. If you're in the area, you're always welcome to worship with us. Zoe Christian Fellowship is located at 1111 Easton Road (Rte. 611), in Warrington, PA. The church phone is (215) 343-7686.