AND THE LORD CROWNED MY EFFORTS

Title: AND THE LORD CROWNED MY EFFORTS

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Psalm 65:11
Supporting Texts: Proverbs 16:3, Colossians 3:23-24, Ecclesiastes 3:13, 1 Corinthians 15:58

INTRODUCTION:
In our journey of faith, we often put in significant effort towards our goals and dreams. However, it is the Lord who brings forth the increase and crowns our efforts with success. This sermon emphasizes the importance of working diligently while trusting in God to bless our endeavors and highlight the fruits of our labour.

1. UNDERSTANDING EFFORT

a) The Nature of Human Efforts
Our efforts are a reflection of our commitment and diligence (Proverbs 21:5).

b) God’s Role in Our Efforts
While we strive, it is God who establishes our plans (Proverbs 16:9).

c) Effort with Purpose
We must work with purpose, aligning our efforts with God’s will (Colossians 3:23).

d) The Fruits of Our Labour
Every effort we put forth has the potential for a fruitful return (Ecclesiastes 3:13).

Biblical Example: Noah’s Ark – Noah's diligent efforts in building the ark resulted in the preservation of life (Genesis 6:22).

2. THE PROMISE OF CROWNING

a) God’s Faithfulness
God is faithful to reward our efforts when we commit them to Him (Hebrews 11:6).

b) The Crowning of Our Labour
The Lord promises to crown our efforts with success (Psalm 65:11).

c) Recognizing His Hand in Our Success
We must acknowledge God as the source of our achievements (James 1:17).

d) The Joy of Seeing Results
There is great joy in witnessing the fruits of our labour through God's grace (John 15:11).

Biblical Example: David’s Reign – David’s efforts in uniting Israel and establishing a kingdom were crowned with success and glory (2 Samuel 5:12).

3. CO-LABOURING WITH GOD

a) Surrendering Our Plans to God
We should commit our work to the Lord for His guidance (Proverbs 16:3).

b) Working Diligently
Diligence is key; we must not grow weary in doing good (Galatians 6:9).

c) Trusting in His Timing
God's timing is perfect; our efforts may not yield immediate results (Ecclesiastes 3:1).

d) Praying for His Blessings
We should pray over our efforts, asking for His favour and direction (Philippians 4:6-7).

Biblical Example: Nehemiah’s Rebuilding – Nehemiah’s dedication to rebuilding Jerusalem’s walls was met with divine favour (Nehemiah 2:18).

4. THE IMPACT OF CROWNED EFFORTS

a) Testimonies of God’s Goodness
Crowning our efforts provides testimonies that encourage others (Revelation 12:11).

b) Building a Legacy
Our crowned efforts can establish a legacy for future generations (Psalm 112:2).

c) Inspiring Others
When we succeed through God's grace, we inspire others to trust in Him (Philippians 1:14).

d) Glorifying God Through Success
Our success should lead others to glorify God (Matthew 5:16).

Biblical Example: Joseph in Egypt – Joseph’s efforts in interpreting dreams and managing resources led to the preservation of many lives and ultimately his rise to power (Genesis 41:46).

5. MAINTAINING HUMILITY IN SUCCESS

a) Recognizing Our Dependence on God
We must always remember that our success is by His grace alone (1 Corinthians 15:10).

b) Avoiding Pride
Humility is essential; pride can lead to downfall (Proverbs 16:18).

c) Giving Back to God
We should honor God with our success, acknowledging Him as the source (Proverbs 3:9-10).

d) Staying Grounded in Faith
Continuous faith is required even after success (Hebrews 10:23).

Biblical Example: King Solomon – Solomon’s wisdom and wealth came from God, and he continually honored God through offerings (1 Kings 3:4).

CONCLUSION:
As we labour diligently in our pursuits, we can trust that the Lord will crown our efforts with success. Let us commit our work to Him, remain humble in our achievements, and give glory to God for every blessing we receive.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Thank You, Lord, for the strength to put in effort.

2. Help me to align my efforts with Your will.

3. May I recognize Your hand in all my successes.

4. Guide me in co-labouring with You in my endeavors.

5. Grant me the patience to wait for Your timing.

6. Let my crowned efforts bring glory to Your name.

7. Teach me humility in times of success.

8. Help me to inspire others through my testimony.

9. Bless my efforts with fruitful results.

10. I declare that the Lord will crown my efforts with success.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:
1. The Lord will crown your efforts with His blessings.

2. Your hard work will not go unnoticed by God.

3. You will experience divine favour in your pursuits.

4. Every area of your life that you commit to God will prosper.

5. Your success will be a testimony to others of God’s goodness.

6. You shall walk in the path of righteousness and success.

7. The Lord will establish you and your works.

8. You will be a vessel of inspiration to those around you.

9. God will grant you wisdom to navigate your journey.

10. You are blessed with crowned efforts that glorify God.