5-Day Devotional Download

Sermon Summary: This sermon explores the importance of listening as part of the "BLESS" strategy for sharing the gospel. It emphasizes the need to listen first to God, then to others, and finally to our surroundings. The pastor stresses that a burning heart for God leads to a flaming tongue for evangelism and that intentional, compassionate listening is crucial for effective ministry and personal spiritual growth.

Key Points: Prayer is the foundation for all aspects of blessing others We must listen to God first before listening to others Listening to people involves understanding their hearts, not just their words We need to be aware of and listen to our community's needs and idols Intentional and compassionate listening is essential for showing Christ's love The goal of Christian life is not just to endure until heaven, but to participate in God's redemptive work

Scripture Reference: Proverbs 18:13 - "He who answers before listening, that is his folly and his shame."

We're challenged to embrace the second greatest commandment: loving our neighbors. The sermon series 'BLESS' unpacks five everyday ways we can love our neighbors and change the world. We're reminded that loving our neighbors isn't always easy, especially in our modern 'back deck' culture. However, by beginning with prayer, we can ask God to bless us indeed and enlarge our territory, just as Jabez did in 1 Chronicles 4:10. This isn't about material blessings, but about expanding our sphere of influence and opening our eyes to the opportunities around us. We're called to let our light shine, as Jesus teaches in Matthew 5:16, making a ripple effect that can impact eternity. This message challenges us to see that our 'someday' for making a difference is today, encouraging us to live intentionally and sacrificially for God's glory.

Key Points:

• Love God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength, and love your neighbor as yourself
• Begin with prayer to ask God for blessings and increased influence
• Open your eyes to opportunities to love your neighbors that are already around you
• Make your life "ripple" for eternity by impacting others positively Intentionally and sacrificially love your neighbors to fulfill God's purpose for your life

Scripture Reference:

• Mark 12:30-31 (The two greatest commandments)
• 1 Chronicles 4:10 (The prayer of Jabez)

5-Day Devotional: Download

Sermon Summary:

This sermon explores the concept of gluttony, expanding its definition beyond just food to encompass overindulgence in various aspects of life. The pastor emphasizes that gluttony is allowing our senses and desires to dictate our actions, rather than relying on God's wisdom and self-control. The message highlights the importance of having a plan to combat impulsiveness and understanding our true spiritual hunger, which can only be satisfied through a relationship with Jesus Christ. The sermon concludes with a powerful reminder of God's unconditional love and the transformative power of choosing Christ over our earthly cravings.

Key Points:

• Gluttony is not just about overeating but overindulging in any desire
• The "monster of more" constantly tempts us to want more than we need
• Gluttony involves letting our senses dictate our actions instead of seeking God's wisdom
• Having a plan is crucial to combat impulsive behavior and temptation
• True contentment comes from seeking something greater than personal satisfaction
• Jesus knew who He was dying for and loves us unconditionally despite our flaws
• God always provides a way out of temptation when we rely on Him

Scripture Reference:

• Genesis 25:29-34 (The story of Esau selling his birthright to Jacob for a bowl of stew)