The Power of Choice: Serving God in a Culture Gone Crazy

In a world filled with distractions, temptations, and challenges, it's easy to lose sight of our commitment to serve God wholeheartedly. But as Pastor Blunt reminds us in his sermon, the power of choice is in our hands. Just as Joshua declared, "As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord," we too have the privilege and responsibility to make a conscious decision to serve God in every aspect of our lives.

The foundation of serving God begins with fearing Him. This doesn't mean living in constant fear of punishment but rather revering and honoring God for who He is. Proverbs 1:7 tells us that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, indicating that our understanding of God's wisdom and ways starts with a deep respect and awe of Him.

Faithfulness is another crucial aspect of serving God. It's easy to be faithful when everything is going well, but true faithfulness shines through during times of trial and temptation. As we remain steadfast in our commitment to God, even when faced with challenges, we demonstrate our trust in His faithfulness towards us.

Focusing on God is essential for maintaining a strong relationship with Him. When we prioritize God in our thoughts and actions, we draw closer to Him, experiencing His presence and guidance in our lives. Colossians 3:2 encourages us to set our minds on things above, where Christ is, rather than on earthly things, reminding us of the importance of keeping our focus on God.

Never forgetting what God has done for us is a powerful way to stay connected to Him. Reflecting on God's faithfulness, provision, and protection in our lives strengthens our faith and reminds us of His goodness. Psalm 103:2-5 praises God for His benefits, including forgiveness, healing, redemption, and love, serving as a reminder of the many blessings we receive from Him.

Finally, serving God involves fulfilling His purpose for our lives. Each of us has been uniquely created by God with gifts, talents, and opportunities to make a difference in the world. As we seek His will and follow His guidance, we align our lives with His purposes, bringing glory to His name and advancing His kingdom on earth. If you are uncertain what your purpose is, we encourage you take the God is for You Classes. These classes are designed to guide you to discover your purpose and live the life God created for you. (link: https://www.cotr.org/god-is-for-you)

Practical Application:

1. Evaluate your commitment to serving God in every area of your life. Are there areas where you need to recommit and prioritize your relationship with Him?

2. Cultivate a reverent fear of the Lord by spending time in prayer, studying His Word, and meditating on His character and attributes.

3. Practice faithfulness by remaining steadfast in your devotion to God, even when faced with challenges or temptations.

4. Keep your focus on God by intentionally setting aside time each day for prayer, worship, and reflection on His Word.

5. Take time to remember and give thanks for the ways God has shown His faithfulness and goodness in your life. Journaling or creating a gratitude list can be helpful in this process.

6. Seek God's guidance and direction for your life, asking Him to reveal His purposes and plans for you. Trust Him to equip and empower you to fulfill His calling on your life.

By embracing the power of choice and committing ourselves to serve God wholeheartedly, we can make a significant impact in our families, communities, and the world around us. Let's follow in the footsteps of Joshua and declare, "As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord."