Commitment to God
Commitment to God42
The Sorrow of a Heart That Wavers
By David Wilkerson0MAT 7:7PHP 4:6JAS 1:6David Wilkerson addresses the struggle of wavering faith, emphasizing that unanswered prayers can lead to a loss of confidence in God, causing believers to hesitate in fully committing their hearts to Him. He highlights the importance of unwavering faith, as described in James 1:6, and warns against putting God on trial with conditional commitments. Wilkerson encourages believers to recognize that true faith triumphs over worldly troubles and to boldly declare their position in Christ, rejecting fear and doubt. He reminds us that God desires complete surrender and will not be bribed by half-hearted commitments.
Committed to Be Seekers
By David Wilkerson0DAN 9:3David Wilkerson emphasizes the necessity of being committed seekers of God, as demonstrated by Daniel's example of prayer and confession. He explains that living a holy life requires a deep commitment to prayer, which prepares believers to face life's crises with trust in God. Wilkerson warns that faithful prayer does not exempt one from trials; rather, it equips them to endure and remain steadfast. He highlights that even seasoned prayer warriors like Daniel faced significant tests later in life, underscoring that the journey of faith continues until the end. Ultimately, the call to seek God is essential for fulfilling the commitment to live a pure and undefiled life.
The Earth Is the Lord's and the Fullness Thereof
By Erlo Stegen0PSA 24:1Erlo Stegen emphasizes that the earth and everything in it belongs to the Lord, urging listeners to seek His blessing by living with clean hands and pure hearts. He highlights the importance of self-examination and adherence to God's standards, referencing the qualifications for church leaders and the need to avoid anger and deceit. Stegen shares a cautionary tale of Mandla Nkosi, who faced dire consequences for breaking promises to God, illustrating the gravity of living in rebellion. The sermon calls for repentance and a commitment to uphold one's vows to God, warning against the dangers of unclean hearts and unholy living. Ultimately, Stegen implores the congregation to align their lives with God's Word to ascend the hill of the Lord.
A Call to Worship Part 2
By Chuck Smith80025:05PSA 95:6In 'A Call to Worship Part 2', Pastor Chuck Smith emphasizes the importance of worshiping God with a heart of submission and sensitivity to His voice. He encourages believers to bow before the Lord, recognizing their relationship as His people and the sheep of His pasture. The sermon warns against hardening our hearts and highlights the necessity of a true commitment to God, contrasting the victorious life in Christ with the struggles of those who remain in spiritual wilderness. Pastor Chuck reminds us that God desires to bless us and that we should keep ourselves in His love to experience the fullness of His promises. Ultimately, he points to the future reign of Christ and the joy it will bring to all creation.
Be Not Borderers.
By Horatius Bonar0EXO 3:8DEU 10:2PSA 23:1JER 29:11MAT 6:24JHN 10:14ROM 8:31PHP 3:20HEB 11:101PE 2:11Horatius Bonar emphasizes the call for Christians to move beyond being borderers—those who linger on the edges of faith without fully committing to God's promises. He draws parallels between Israel's journey to possess the Promised Land and the spiritual journey of believers, urging them to leave behind the bondage of sin and the wilderness of indecision. Bonar warns that being a borderer is a state of sin, misery, danger, and an abomination to God, and he encourages believers to decisively enter into the fullness of life that God offers. He reminds the congregation that God seeks and guides those who are lost, providing protection and instruction as they journey toward their true home. Ultimately, Bonar calls for a commitment to fully possess the land of faith and the blessings that come with it.
The Kiss of the Backslider.
By Horatius Bonar0RUT 1:14ISA 16:4MAT 6:24LUK 9:622CO 6:17GAL 2:20PHP 3:8JAS 4:41JN 2:15REV 21:8Horatius Bonar contrasts the choices of Orpah and Ruth, highlighting Orpah's kiss of farewell as a symbol of indecision and attachment to the world, while Ruth's commitment to cleave to Naomi represents true faith and devotion to God. Bonar emphasizes that many people, like Orpah, wish to maintain ties with both the world and God, but true discipleship requires a decisive choice to follow the Lord wholeheartedly. He warns against the dangers of half-heartedness and the necessity of forsaking worldly pleasures for a complete commitment to Christ. Ultimately, Bonar calls for believers to embrace a life of unwavering faith, cleaving to God and rejecting the allure of Moab.
Middle Grounders
By David Wilkerson0GEN 49:4DEU 33:21JAS 1:8REV 3:15David Wilkerson addresses the dangers of living on middle ground, using the characteristics of the two and a half tribes of Israel—Reuben, Gad, and Manasseh—as a warning. He highlights how Reuben's instability, Gad's self-interest, and Manasseh's tendency to forget God's commandments reflect the traits of modern Christians who refuse to fully commit to God. These 'middle-grounders' are characterized by divided hearts, neglect of God's Word, and a focus on personal gain rather than spiritual growth. Wilkerson urges believers to seek the fullness of God and to follow Him wholeheartedly, leaving behind the idols that hinder their spiritual journey.
Get to Work!
By C.H. Spurgeon0COL 3:23C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the necessity for Christians to fully engage in the work of the Lord, urging believers to dedicate their entire being—body, soul, and spirit—to serving God in their daily lives. He stresses that one can glorify God without abandoning secular responsibilities, as these can serve as platforms for ministry. Spurgeon warns against complacency, encouraging Christians to be alert and proactive in their faith, stating that true service requires earnest effort and commitment. He calls for a deeper dedication to the work of Christ, reminding that if a task is worth doing, it is worth doing to the best of one's ability and continually striving for improvement. Ultimately, Spurgeon challenges believers to take action and work diligently for the Lord.
The Committed Life
By Watchman Nee0GEN 12:6GEN 13:18JHN 4:14ACT 7:2ROM 12:1GAL 3:29HEB 3:61JN 5:19Watchman Nee emphasizes the significance of a committed life through the example of Abraham, who was called by God during a time of great moral decline. God revealed Himself to Abraham, sharing His plans and establishing a covenant that included a land and a people to bear witness to His glory. The sermon highlights the importance of building altars in our lives, representing our commitment to God, and the necessity of fellowship within the Church as a reflection of the Body of Christ. Nee stresses that true knowledge and strength come from a shared life in Christ, rather than mere information or individualism. Ultimately, the message calls believers to recognize their role as witnesses in the world, rooted in the life and strength that comes from God.
Hosea 10:1
By Chuck Smith0JOS 24:151KI 18:212KI 17:33PSA 139:23ISA 29:13HOS 10:1MAT 6:24ROM 6:16JAS 4:8REV 3:16Chuck Smith addresses the issue of a divided heart, illustrating how Israel acknowledged God while simultaneously worshipping Baal, leading to a lack of true devotion and fruitfulness. He emphasizes that many may attend worship services and believe in God, yet their priorities often lie with materialism and personal pleasures, creating a lukewarm faith. Smith urges listeners to examine their hearts, recognizing that a divided heart is intolerable to God, who desires complete devotion. He encourages prayer for unity of heart and warns that false worship leads to bondage. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to serve only Jesus, highlighting the need for sincerity in faith.
Ruth - Part 2
By John McGregor82435:42RUT 1:16John McGregor explores the profound decisions made by Naomi, Ruth, and Orpah in Ruth chapter 1, emphasizing the significance of returning to God and the community of faith. Naomi's decision to return to Judah reflects a longing for restoration despite her bitterness, while Ruth's unwavering commitment to Naomi and her God showcases true conversion and loyalty. In contrast, Orpah's choice to return to Moab symbolizes a superficial commitment that lacks depth and transformation. The sermon highlights the importance of making life-altering decisions that align with God's will and the welcoming nature of the people of God. Ultimately, it encourages listeners to reflect on their own decisions regarding faith and community.
Ye Cannot Serve God and Mammon
By A.B. Simpson01KI 18:21PSA 91:14MAT 6:24MAT 22:37LUK 10:42ROM 12:11CO 10:21GAL 2:20PHP 1:21JAS 1:8A.B. Simpson emphasizes that Jesus clearly states one cannot serve both God and mammon, warning that attempting to do so leads to serving only one master, ultimately resulting in spiritual deception and failure. He illustrates this with examples of biblical figures like Saul, Balaam, and Judas, who faced dire consequences for their divided loyalties. In contrast, he highlights Mary and Paul, who exemplified a singular devotion to Christ, leading to divine favor and deliverance. Simpson urges believers to fully commit their hearts to God, assuring that such dedication will not go unrewarded. The sermon challenges listeners to reflect on their own commitment to Jesus as their sole master.
"To Be Conformed to the Image of His Son"
By T. Austin-Sparks0JER 18:4MAT 3:13ROM 8:29T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the transformative work of God as the Potter, who reshapes humanity into vessels for His glory despite the marred state of the clay. He illustrates how the pressures of life, often seen as disintegration, actually unite believers in a deeper fellowship, especially in times of persecution. The sermon highlights the importance of recognizing Jesus as the ultimate Pattern, whose baptism signifies a complete commitment to God, serving as a model for believers to follow. Sparks encourages the congregation to reflect on their own commitment to God and to strive to be conformed to the image of Christ. Ultimately, he calls for a deeper understanding of the Holy Spirit's role in revealing this Pattern to believers.
Sacrificing Everything
By Zac Poonen0JHN 2:23JHN 17:10Zac Poonen emphasizes the necessity of sacrificing everything for the sake of building the Body of Christ, highlighting that true commitment to God requires us to give our all, just as Jesus did. He warns that many Christian leaders lack spiritual authority because they have not fully surrendered their lives and resources to God. Poonen challenges believers to prioritize God's work over personal convenience and to be willing to invest their time, money, and energy into the church. He illustrates this with the example of Noah, who did not hesitate to finance God's command without questioning the costs. Ultimately, he calls for a repentance from a miserly attitude towards God, urging believers to be generous and fully committed to His kingdom.
The Doom of the Double-Hearted.
By Horatius Bonar0NUM 31:8JER 45:5MAT 6:24MAT 7:13LUK 9:62GAL 6:7JAS 4:42PE 2:151JN 2:15REV 21:8Horatius Bonar warns against the fate of the double-hearted, exemplified by Balaam, who sought to serve both God and mammon, ultimately leading to his downfall. Balaam's life was marked by indecision, covetousness, and a desire for worldly gain, which resulted in a tragic end devoid of honor or lamentation. Bonar emphasizes that one cannot serve two masters and that the pursuit of both righteousness and unrighteousness leads to spiritual ruin. He calls for a commitment to God without compromise, urging believers to examine their lives and choose between the world and the divine. The sermon serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of a divided heart and the importance of living a life fully devoted to God.
Undefiled in the Midst of Wickedness
By David Wilkerson0PSA 119:9DAN 1:8MAT 5:14ROM 12:22CO 6:17EPH 5:11PHP 2:15JAS 4:41PE 2:91JN 2:15David Wilkerson emphasizes the importance of maintaining spiritual integrity in a corrupt society, using Daniel's commitment to abstain from the king's food as a powerful example. Daniel and his friends chose to remain undefiled amidst the wickedness of Babylon, understanding that compromising their standards would lead to a loss of freedom. They made a pact to uphold their faith and values without imposing their beliefs on others, focusing instead on their personal relationship with God. Wilkerson challenges listeners to consider their own commitment to God's purposes, especially in times of crisis, and to be voices of purity in a morally declining world.
The Way to God’s Fulness
By T. Austin-Sparks0COL 1:14T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the profound truth of God's fullness revealed in Christ, as articulated in the Epistles to the Colossians and Ephesians. He highlights that while we are called to understand the fullness God has for us, we must also recognize our role in being His fullness, which requires a willingness to be led and filled by Him. Using the example of Elisha's unwavering commitment to Elijah, Sparks illustrates the necessity of zeal and readiness to follow God's call, even at a personal cost. He stresses that true spiritual progress begins at Gilgal, where the flesh is judged and personal interests are set aside, allowing us to become co-workers in God's plan. Ultimately, the path to experiencing God's fullness involves a daily commitment to self-denial and following Christ.
Keeping Your Heart Alive
By K.P. Yohannan0MAT 28:19K.P. Yohannan emphasizes the necessity of maintaining our spiritual lives just as we maintain our physical possessions, warning that neglect leads to deterioration of our commitment to God. He reflects on how our initial passion for serving God can fade over time, replaced by distractions and self-interest. Yohannan challenges listeners to examine their priorities and to renew their focus on the Great Commission, using the example of Adoniram Judson's unwavering commitment to inspire a radical dedication to winning souls for Christ. He urges believers to reject distractions and to measure their activities against their divine purpose. Ultimately, he calls for a revival of passion and discipline in our spiritual lives to combat the enemy's tactics of weariness.
Strengthen What Remains: Holding Fast to Our Assignment
By Mike Bickle111:03:30REV 3:2Mike Bickle emphasizes the importance of strengthening what remains in our spiritual assignments, urging the community to remember their calling and hold fast to it. He reflects on the miraculous journey of IHOP over the past 18 years, acknowledging the weaknesses and struggles of the people involved while highlighting God's faithfulness. Bickle calls for a renewed commitment to the core values and DNA of the ministry, encouraging leaders to model and insist on these principles. He warns of impending challenges and the need for a unified response to the call of God, reminding everyone that their words and actions matter in the face of adversity. Ultimately, he invites the congregation to recommit themselves to their sacred trust before the Lord.
Misunderstood Salt
By A.W. Tozer0MAT 5:13MAT 6:33JHN 15:19ROM 12:22CO 5:17GAL 2:20EPH 2:10PHP 3:20COL 3:21PE 2:9A.W. Tozer emphasizes the importance of choosing God as our primary focus, despite being misunderstood or criticized by the world. He argues that Christians should not apologize for their commitment to Christ, as this choice leads to a life of goodness and integrity. Tozer questions who has been harmed by a true Christian's presence, asserting that no one is worse off for knowing a follower of Christ. He highlights the joy and fulfillment that comes from walking with God, contrasting it with the emptiness of worldly pursuits. Ultimately, Tozer encourages believers to embrace their identity in Christ without shame.
The Set of Our Sails
By A.W. Tozer0GEN 28:20DAN 1:8A.W. Tozer emphasizes the significance of moral determination in serving the Lord, using examples from the Bible such as Daniel, Jacob, Jesus, and Paul, who all demonstrated a steadfast commitment to God's will. He encourages believers to set their sails in alignment with God's purpose, assuring that they will navigate life’s challenges effectively. Tozer highlights that true spiritual greatness arises from a firm resolve to follow God's path, regardless of external pressures. He concludes with a prayer for renewed commitment to serve God faithfully and without compromise.
The Link Between Elisha and Elijah
By T. Austin-Sparks02KI 2:9T. Austin-Sparks explores the profound connection between Elisha and Elijah, illustrating how Elisha represents the Church empowered by the resurrection. He emphasizes that Elisha's ministry begins with a double portion of Elijah's spirit, symbolizing the Church's call to greater works through the Holy Spirit. The sermon highlights key events in Elisha's life that demonstrate the transition from death to life and limitation to fullness, underscoring the necessity of being fully committed and diligent in one's earthly vocation as preparation for divine service. Sparks warns against half-heartedness and stresses the importance of relying on God's power rather than personal strength, culminating in the understanding that true ministry begins at the Cross and in the resurrection of Christ.
Much Time Should Be Given to Prayer
By E.M. Bounds0MAT 26:40LUK 6:12E.M. Bounds emphasizes the necessity of dedicating significant time to prayer, illustrating that the greatest spiritual leaders throughout history have made prayer a priority in their lives. He cites examples of renowned figures like Bishop Andrews and John Wesley, who devoted hours daily to communion with God, demonstrating that deep and persistent prayer leads to a more profound relationship with the Lord. Bounds argues that short prayers are effective only when they are rooted in the long, earnest prayers that precede them, highlighting the importance of wrestling with God in prayer. He encourages believers to cultivate a habit of spending much time alone with God, as this is essential for spiritual growth and influence. Ultimately, Bounds calls for a commitment to prayer as a vital aspect of the Christian life.
The Spirit Commited to God
By Robert Murray M'Cheyne0RUT 1:20PSA 22:12PSA 31:5ISA 30:21ISA 46:4LUK 23:46JHN 10:281TI 1:152TI 1:12HEB 13:8Robert Murray M'Cheyne emphasizes the profound significance of committing our spirits to God, drawing parallels between Christ's final words on the cross and the believer's journey. He highlights that both the afflicted and the redeemed can find solace in entrusting their souls to the Lord, especially during times of temptation, affliction, and even death. M'Cheyne encourages believers to recognize the preciousness of their souls and the importance of placing them in the hands of the Redeemer, who is capable of delivering and preserving them. He reminds the congregation that in moments of despair, they can echo Christ's words, finding hope and assurance in God's truth. Ultimately, he calls for a heartfelt commitment to God, urging listeners to prepare their spirits for the eternal journey ahead.
Isaiah Chapter 20 the Servant of the Lord
By A.B. Simpson0ISA 6:7ISA 42:19ISA 43:10ISA 45:2ISA 49:3ISA 50:4ISA 52:7ISA 54:17ISA 55:11ISA 61:6A.B. Simpson emphasizes the multifaceted role of the 'servant of the Lord' as depicted in Isaiah, highlighting that this title applies to Israel, Jesus Christ, and individual believers. He stresses that true service begins with belonging to God and being equipped by the Holy Spirit, urging believers to embody the characteristics of a servant, priest, and witness. Simpson calls for a commitment to glorifying God through our lives and actions, while also recognizing the promises and resources God provides to His servants. He challenges the congregation to reflect on their own service and dedication to God, encouraging them to be active participants in His work.
Ford at Southside-st.louis 04 Joshua 24;
By Stan Ford31745:48JOS 24:14Stan Ford emphasizes the critical choice each individual must make regarding whom they will serve, drawing from Joshua 24. He reflects on Joshua's leadership and the importance of remaining steadfast in faith despite challenges, urging listeners to consider their own commitments to God. Ford highlights that the decision to serve the Lord is not just a personal choice but a responsibility that each person must take seriously, as it impacts their lives and families. He encourages the congregation to choose wisely between the gods of the past and the true God, affirming that as for him and his house, they will serve the Lord.
Heart-Seekers
By A.W. Tozer01CO 9:24A.W. Tozer emphasizes the necessity of dedication and discipline in the spiritual life, comparing the lack of commitment among Christians to the rigorous training required in music, sports, and science. He argues that spiritual progress demands a focused separation from worldly distractions, urging believers to cultivate their relationship with God in solitude and silence. Tozer warns that spiritual triumphs require hard work and cannot be achieved through idleness, likening the church's complacency to an undisciplined army that would easily fall to its enemies. He calls for Christians to actively engage in the kingdom of God as diligent workers, much like farmers and miners in their fields.
Moral Determination
By A.W. Tozer0GEN 28:20A.W. Tozer emphasizes the significance of moral determination in serving the Lord, drawing from biblical examples such as Jacob, Daniel, Paul, and Jesus, who all demonstrated a resolute commitment to God's will. He highlights that true spiritual greatness arises from a steadfast will to follow God, rather than a passive approach to faith. Tozer encourages believers to embrace the challenge of purposefully cleaving to the Lord, asserting that while surrendering may feel like a breaking of the will, it is actually a purging that aligns our will with God's. The sermon calls for a revival of moral determination in an age of weak faith.
Joshua Chapter 4 the Conflict and the Conqueror
By A.B. Simpson0EPH 6:10A.B. Simpson emphasizes the themes of conflict and victory in the Christian life, drawing parallels between the Israelites' battles in Joshua and the spiritual warfare described in Ephesians. He warns against the danger of being 'conquerors but not possessors,' highlighting the need for believers to fully commit to living in the promises of God rather than settling for a life on the borders of faith. Simpson also discusses the importance of recognizing and confessing sin to maintain victory over spiritual adversaries, and he encourages believers to rely on Christ as their Captain in the ongoing battle against evil. Ultimately, he calls for an uncompromising faith that fully embraces God's will and purpose.
I Kings 18:21
By Chuck Smith01KI 18:21MAT 6:24JAS 1:8REV 3:15Chuck Smith addresses the evil reign of Ahab and Jezebel, emphasizing the three groups present on Mount Carmel: the prophets of God, the prophets of Baal, and the undecided multitude. He highlights the dangers of being caught between two opinions, noting that those who fully embrace sin are less damaging than those who waver. Smith critiques the prophets of Baal for their misguided devotion and the emptiness of their worship, while contrasting it with the boldness and calmness of the true prophet of God. He calls for a decisive commitment to God, urging listeners to choose their path and not to halt between two opinions.
A Peculiar Treasure
By T. Austin-Sparks0NEH 11:1T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the significance of being a 'peculiar treasure' to God, drawing parallels between the voluntary commitment of the people in Nehemiah's time to dwell in Jerusalem and the faithful remnant that fears the Lord in Malachi's prophecy. He highlights that true devotion often comes at a cost, as those who choose to live at the heart of God's testimony may have to sacrifice comfort and relationships. Sparks encourages believers to willingly offer themselves to God, becoming part of a select group that He treasures, and reminds them that their names are recorded in His 'book of remembrance.' Ultimately, he calls for a deeper commitment to God's purpose, urging the congregation to recognize the intrinsic value of being part of His peculiar treasure.
"The Lord Is There"
By T. Austin-Sparks0EZK 48:35EPH 2:19T. Austin-Sparks concludes his studies in Ezekiel by emphasizing the profound truth that 'The Lord is there,' which encapsulates God's ultimate purpose for humanity and creation. He explains that God desires to commit Himself to man, but this can only happen when man is free from the influence of Satan and is aligned with Christ, who represents the fulfillment of righteousness. Sparks highlights that for God to dwell among His people, the Church must understand God's purpose, His way, and the significance of the Cross. He stresses that the presence of God is contingent upon the glorification of Christ and the Church's alignment with divine principles. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deeper spiritual understanding and commitment to God's vision for His dwelling among us.
The Right Beginning
By A.W. Pink0GEN 1:1PSA 16:5LUK 2:49ROM 12:12CO 8:52PE 1:201JN 4:19A.W. Pink emphasizes the critical importance of a right beginning in both spiritual and practical matters, asserting that a faulty foundation leads to insecurity in faith and life. He argues that true spirituality begins with acknowledging God as the source of all things, as stated in Genesis 1:1, and that salvation is entirely God's work, not dependent on human effort. Pink warns against the dangers of erroneous teachings and the neglect of Scriptural discipline within the church, which can lead to spiritual failure. He encourages believers to renew their commitment to God at the start of a new year, making 'In the beginning God' their guiding principle in all endeavors. Ultimately, Pink calls for a heartfelt surrender to God, recognizing His sovereignty in every aspect of life.
Waiting for Orders
By K.P. Yohannan0PSA 37:7ISA 40:31MAT 6:33LUK 9:23JHN 10:27ROM 12:11CO 6:19GAL 2:20PHP 1:21JAS 1:22K.P. Yohannan emphasizes the importance of waiting for God's instructions, likening it to a messenger boy who patiently awaits his master's orders. He contrasts this commitment with the frantic, self-driven approach often seen in modern evangelical Christianity, urging believers to recognize their identity as bondslaves of Christ. Yohannan challenges listeners to evaluate their level of commitment to God, questioning whether they are merely performing tasks or fully surrendering their lives to His will. He highlights that true fulfillment comes from aligning with God's purpose rather than relying on personal efforts. Ultimately, he reminds us that living for Christ is the essence of a meaningful life.
Christianity Is a Person
By Joseph Carroll2541:28REV 2:12Joseph Carroll emphasizes that Christianity is fundamentally a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, rather than merely a set of doctrines or a means to an end. He challenges the audience to reflect on their understanding of Christianity, urging them to cultivate a deep love for Christ that transcends mere attendance or ritualistic practices. Carroll warns against the dangers of complacency and self-centeredness, encouraging believers to fully commit their lives to Christ and prioritize their relationship with Him above all else. He stresses that true love for Jesus will manifest in one's actions and desires, ultimately leading to a fulfilling Christian life. The sermon concludes with a call to repentance and a heartfelt plea for genuine devotion to Christ.
God Seeks Committed Hearts
By Phil Beach Jr.9133:542CH 16:9PSA 37:5PRO 3:5ISA 40:31MAT 6:33ROM 12:1PHP 4:13HEB 11:6JAS 4:61PE 5:5Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes that God seeks committed hearts, urging the congregation to understand the importance of fully dedicating themselves to Him. He reflects on the story of King Asa from 2 Chronicles 16, illustrating how reliance on God leads to strength and victory, while reliance on man leads to folly. Beach challenges listeners to reaffirm their commitment to God daily, highlighting that God's grace empowers action and transformation in their lives. He encourages everyone to present themselves as living sacrifices, reminding them that God's eyes are searching for those whose hearts are fully devoted to Him. Ultimately, he calls for a response to God's call for commitment, assuring that He will show His strength to those who seek Him wholeheartedly.
Determining to Follow the Lord
By A.W. Tozer0GEN 28:20A.W. Tozer emphasizes that true religion is rooted in the will, not in feelings, and that our spiritual direction is determined by our choices. He illustrates this with examples from the Bible, such as Jacob's vow, Daniel's purpose, and Jesus' resolute journey to the cross, highlighting that moral determination is essential in serving the Lord. Tozer argues that many biblical figures achieved spiritual greatness through a steadfast commitment to God's will, despite facing challenges and opposition. He encourages believers to set their sails with purpose and determination, rather than being swayed by external circumstances. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deliberate choice to follow God wholeheartedly.
The Lord's Loving Remembrances of Youth
By Octavius Winslow0PSA 119:9PRO 22:6ECC 12:1JER 2:2MAT 6:33ROM 12:1EPH 6:11TI 4:122TI 1:5JAS 4:8Octavius Winslow emphasizes the significance of youth in a Christian's life, describing it as a precious time when one first dedicates themselves to God. He reflects on how God remembers the kindness shown during this formative period, highlighting the importance of making a conscious decision to forsake the world and embrace a relationship with Christ. Winslow encourages the congregation to seize their youth for spiritual growth, drawing parallels to biblical figures like Josiah and Samuel who devoted themselves to God early in life. He reminds believers that their early commitment to Christ is a kindness to Him, and urges them to renew their vows of dedication and service. Ultimately, he calls for a heartfelt remembrance of God's love and grace throughout one's life.
Not Without Your Presence
By Erlo Stegen1.2K00:00EXO 33:15Erlo Stegen emphasizes the necessity of God's presence in our lives, drawing from Moses' plea in Exodus 33. He highlights that true success and fulfillment come not from blessings or victories, but from being in God's presence. Stegen warns against the dangers of forgetting our commitments to God, using poignant examples to illustrate the consequences of failing to keep our promises. He encourages the bridal couple, Gert and Jennifer, to prioritize God's presence in their marriage, ensuring that their relationship reflects holiness and righteousness. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a life that is distinct and well-pleasing to God, urging all to remember their vows and commitments to Him.
King David: The Vow That Changed History (Ps. 132)
By Mike Bickle2247:37PSA 132:1Mike Bickle emphasizes King David's vow to establish a dwelling place for God in Jerusalem, highlighting David's intense commitment to seek God's glory above personal comfort and domestic life. David's vow, which he made as a young man, reflects his understanding of the significance of God's presence and the need for a resting place where God's glory can be manifest. Bickle draws parallels between David's dedication and the call for believers today to contend for God's fullness in their generation, urging them to remain steadfast in prayer and intercession until they see God's promises fulfilled. He encourages the congregation to be part of a larger movement seeking revival, emphasizing that the pursuit of God's glory should be their life work, regardless of the challenges faced. Ultimately, Bickle calls for a collective effort to create a culture of prayer and dedication to God, echoing David's heart for a dwelling place for the Lord.
Our Grit and God's Grace
By A.W. Tozer0MAT 5:14ROM 12:11CO 15:582CO 12:9EPH 6:10PHP 4:13COL 3:23HEB 10:24JAS 1:221PE 5:8A.W. Tozer encourages believers to fully commit to God, emphasizing the need for increased prayer, Bible reading, and active participation in faith communities. He calls for a return to the strong, unwavering faith of early Protestant Christians, urging the congregation to reject the complacency of modern Christianity. Tozer highlights the importance of personal grit in the Christian journey, reminding listeners that while they provide the determination, God will supply the necessary grace to overcome challenges. He invokes the legacy of faithful forebears who shaped the nations, challenging the audience to live up to that heritage. Ultimately, Tozer inspires a bold stand for authentic Christianity in a time of spiritual decline.
Master and Servant
By D.L. Moody02KI 2:1D.L. Moody emphasizes the profound relationship between Elijah and Elisha, illustrating Elisha's unwavering commitment to his master as he follows him to various locations despite being urged to stay behind. Elisha's request for a double portion of Elijah's spirit signifies a deep desire for spiritual empowerment and a legacy of faith. Moody encourages believers to seek the same fervor and anointing of the Holy Spirit, urging them to reject worldliness and pursue a powerful relationship with God. The sermon calls for a passionate prayer for the Spirit of God to ignite a transformative fire within the church and individual lives.