"If it is the Lord's Will" Humility, Taming the Tongue, and Submitting to God's Will James 4: 10-17
Sermon Resources
Sermon Summary
Title: Purifying Hearts: Overcoming Spiritual Adultery and Cultivating Humility
Sermon Summary: This sermon explores the themes of humility, controlling one's speech, and submitting to God's will. The pastor uses personal anecdotes and biblical references to illustrate the importance of humbling oneself before God, avoiding slander and gossip, and recognizing our dependence on God's guidance in our daily lives and future plans. The message emphasizes the need for Christians to purify their hearts, practice forgiveness, and remain open to God's direction.
Key Points:
Humility is essential in Christian life, especially after overcoming difficulties
We must be cautious about pride that can lead to judging others
Slander and gossip are condemned in the Bible and harm relationships
We should judge others only after examining our own faults
Including God in our plans and being flexible to His will is a form of humility
Purifying our hearts through Christ is necessary to control our speech and actions
5-Day Personal Devotional
Day 1: Humility Before God Reading: James 4:6-10 Devotional:
Humility is a cornerstone of our faith journey. Just as the pastor described the dog's hesitation before going on a walk, we too can be hesitant in fully submitting to God's will. Today's reading reminds us that God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble. Reflect on areas in your life where pride may be hindering your relationship with God. How can you actively humble yourself before the Lord today? Remember, true humility isn't thinking less of yourself, but thinking of yourself less and of God more. As you submit to God, trust that He will lift you up in due time.
Day 2: Taming the Tongue Reading: James 3:1-12
Devotional: Our words have immense power - to build up or tear down. James compares the tongue to a small spark that can set a great forest ablaze. Consider how your words have impacted others recently. Have they been a source of encouragement or criticism? The transcription emphasized the danger of slander and partial truths. Today, challenge yourself to speak only words that bring life and reflect God's love. Before speaking, especially about others, pause and ask: "Is this true, necessary, and kind?" Let your speech be a testament to the transforming work of Christ in your heart.
Day 3: Judging Others Reading: Matthew 7:1-5
Devotional: It's easy to spot faults in others while overlooking our own shortcomings. Jesus' teaching on judgment calls us to self-examination before critiquing others. Recall the story of Jesus and the woman caught in adultery - He showed compassion while still addressing sin. Today, when you're tempted to judge someone, first examine your own heart. Ask God to reveal any "planks" in your own eye. How can you approach others with the same grace and truth that Jesus demonstrated? Strive to create an environment of love and acceptance, where gentle correction can be received because it's rooted in genuine care.
Day 4: Surrendering Our Plans to God Reading: Proverbs 16:1-9
Devotional: We often make plans with confidence, forgetting our limited perspective. The transcription reminded us of the importance of saying "if it is the Lord's will" when discussing future plans. Today's reading emphasizes that while we may make plans, it is the Lord who establishes our steps. Reflect on your current goals and aspirations. Have you invited God into your planning process? Take time to surrender your plans to God, asking for His guidance and wisdom. Be open to divine redirection, trusting that God's plans for you are greater than anything you could imagine on your own.
Day 5: God's Love in Our Brokenness Reading: Romans 8:31-39
Devotional: The transcription touched on our inherent brokenness and need for God's purifying love. Today's powerful passage reminds us that nothing can separate us from God's love. Reflect on areas where you feel broken or unworthy. Remember that Christ's love for you is not based on your performance or perfection. It's in our weakness that His strength is made perfect. How can you embrace God's unconditional love today? Allow this truth to transform how you view yourself and others. Let God's love flow through you, extending grace and compassion to those around you, just as you have received it.
Small Group Guide: "If It Is the Lord's Will, Then Do It"
Opening Prayer: Begin with a prayer asking God to open hearts and minds to discuss His word and apply it to our lives.
Key Takeaways:
Humility is crucial in our Christian walk, especially after experiencing victories or blessings.
We must be cautious about pride, judgment, and slander in our speech and attitudes.
Including God in our plans and being open to His guidance demonstrates humility.
Discussion Questions:
The pastor shared a story about walking his dog Coco. How does this relate to our willingness to follow God's will, even when we're hesitant?
The sermon mentions that "our greatest weakness is often our strength." What does this mean to you? Can you share an example from your own life?
How can we distinguish between healthy discernment and unhealthy judgment of others?
The pastor talks about slander and partial truths. Why is it important to have the full context before speaking about others? How can we practice this in our daily lives?
Discuss the concept of "no condemnation, but correction" that Jesus demonstrated with the woman caught in adultery. How can we apply this in our relationships?
What does it mean to you to say "if it's the Lord's will" when making plans? How can we practically incorporate this mindset?
Practical Applications:
This week, practice pausing before speaking about others. Ask yourself: Do I have the full context? Am I speaking out of love or judgment?
Choose an area of your life where you've experienced success. Reflect on how you can maintain humility in that area.
Before making any significant plans this week, take time to pray and seek God's guidance. Be open to His direction, even if it differs from your initial plans.
If you find yourself judging someone, try to identify the "plank" in your own eye first. How might addressing your own issues change your perspective?
Practice using phrases like "God willing" or "if it's the Lord's will" when discussing future plans with others. Let it remind you to remain humble and open to God's leading.
Closing Prayer: Close the session by praying for humility, pure hearts, and the ability to love others as God loves us.
