Solve Our Problems, But Save Our Pigs!


Introduction:  Matthew 8:28 - 34

Mat 8:28 - 34 

Jesus rid the Gadarene country of public menace number one.  The demonized 
individuals were destroying property and lives.  What's more, no one from the 
community could even walk by a graveyard because the men were so violent.  The men 
were naked, bloody and strong enough to break any chains put on them.  Yet, when Jesus 
cast the demons out and the people saw what had taken place - they wanted Jesus out of 
town on the next boat.  They didn't like the difficulties of having demon-possessed men 
in town...but to them, it sure beat facing the implications of Jesus' lordship and the loss of 
livestock.  Their philosophy: "Solve Our Problems, But Save Our Pigs!"


Some Observations:

	1.  People unwilling to pay the price

	2.  The demons new Jesus before the people

	3.  The demons didn't want to leave

Unfortunately, the Gadarene people are much like some of us today.  We don't want to be 
confronted by change, even when God authors it.


I.  VICTORY MAY MEAN Discomfort

	II Corinthians 11:23 - 39

	A.  Never get too comfortable.

	B.  Never allow for "Plan B"  (No alternative plan)

	C.  Never fall into a Maintenance mind set, don't be content to carry on when you
 	      can press on.


 II.  VICTORY MAY MEAN Disruption.

	Do you "react or "respond" to disruption?

	To react means:  Negativism

	To respond means:  Positivism

	In order to stay on course through changing circumstances, this three step plan 
will 	help:

	A.  Find out the will of God for your life.

	B.  Don't give in to the desires of the flesh.

	C.  Don't try to just survive.


III.  VICTORY MAY MEAN Dissatisfaction

	A.  Satisfaction can stifle growth and victory.

	B.  Dissatisfaction starves the soul for more.


CONCLUSION:  

Do the circumstances of your day have to be smooth and easy for you to "have a good 
day?"

What "conditions" do you set on your service to God, before you'll be "happy" in 
ministry?