Author: Aaron Lage

What’s So Wrong About Pride?

Post author By Aaron Lage
Post date June 10, 2024
No Comments on What’s So Wrong About Pride?

In a world that often celebrates pride and self-exaltation, it’s easy to lose sight of the true nature of God’s love and the path to genuine fulfillment. As we navigate the complexities of life, it’s crucial to understand that it is the kindness of God that leads us to repentance, not judgment or condemnation.

The Bible reminds us that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). It’s tempting to point fingers at others, labeling their actions as wicked or deserving of punishment. However, when we adopt this mindset, we often fail to recognize our own shortcomings and the grace that God has extended to us.

Romans 1:18-32 paints a vivid picture of humanity’s struggle with sin, including sexual immorality, pride, and disobedience to parents. It’s important to acknowledge that these behaviors are not in alignment with God’s design for our lives. Yet, as Christians, our response should not be one of judgment or self-righteousness, but rather one of love and compassion.

We must remember that our identity is not defined by our past mistakes or current struggles, but by who God says we are. We are created in His image, and He loves us unconditionally. When we truly grasp the depth of God’s love for us, it transforms the way we view ourselves and others.

The cultural agenda may push us to embrace certain lifestyles or behaviors, but as believers, we are called to stand firm in our faith and hold fast to the truth of God’s Word. This doesn’t mean we engage in heated debates or attempt to shame others into submission. Instead, we are to speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15), building relationships and showing genuine care for those around us.

It’s through the kindness of God that we are drawn to repentance. When we experience the transformative power of His love, it compels us to turn away from our sin and pursue a life that honors Him. This same love should overflow from our hearts as we interact with others, regardless of their background or lifestyle.

As Christians, we must guard against the temptation to devalue others based on their choices or actions. Every person is precious in God’s sight, and He desires for all to come to the knowledge of the truth (1 Timothy 2:4). By extending love, compassion, and understanding, we create opportunities for authentic conversations and the sharing of the gospel message.

It’s important to recognize that change doesn’t happen overnight, and it’s not our job to “fix” others. Our role is to love as Christ loves us, to pray for those who are struggling, and to trust in the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. As we walk in humility and surrender our own pride, we become vessels through which God can work in the lives of those around us.

In a world that often feels divided and hostile, let us be a light that shines brightly with the love of Christ. May we approach others with kindness, compassion, and a willingness to listen. As we do so, we create a safe space for honest conversations, healing, and the opportunity for others to experience the life-changing love of God.

Remember, it is the goodness of God that leads us to repentance. Let us extend that same goodness to others, trusting in the power of His love to transform hearts and lives. As we navigate the challenges of this world, may we always cling to the truth of God’s Word and the hope that is found in Christ alone.

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Here is a 5-day Bible reading plan and devotional guide based on the themes presented in the sermon:

Day 1: The Kindness of God
Reading: Romans 2:1-4

Devotional: God’s kindness is what leads us to repentance. Despite our sins and shortcomings, He remains patient and tolerant with us. As we reflect on the incredible love and grace God has shown us, let us be humbled. Rather than judging others self-righteously, we should extend that same kindness, pointing people to the goodness of God that can transform their lives, just as it has transformed ours.

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Day 2: Trading Truth for Lies
Reading: Romans 1:18-25

Devotional: When we deny God as Creator, we open ourselves up to believing lies. We trade the invaluable truth of being made in God’s image for the destructive deception that we are just products of random chance. This lie devalues human life and justifies all manner of sinful behaviors. But God’s truth remains – He lovingly crafted us and instilled in us inherent worth and purpose. Embrace your true identity as His beloved creation.

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Day 3: The Universality of Sin
Reading: Romans 1:26-32, 2:1

Devotional: It’s easy to point fingers at certain sins while overlooking our own. But the reality is, we all fall short of God’s glory. Gossiping, pride, greed, disobedience to parents – such sins are just as grievous to God. Rather than self-righteously condemning others, we must humbly acknowledge our own need for a Savior. For when we judge others, we bring that same judgment on ourselves. Let God’s grace keep us from a hypocritical spirit.

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Day 4: Made Righteous in Christ
Reading: Romans 3:21-26

Devotional: None of us can earn righteousness through our own efforts. But in His great love, God made a way – through faith in Jesus Christ. When we put our trust in Him, God looks at us and sees not our sins, but Christ’s perfect righteousness credited to us. What a humbling, freeing truth! We are made right with God not by our works, but solely by His grace. Rest in your righteous standing in Christ today.

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Day 5: Loving Others Like Jesus
Reading: John 13:1-17, 34-35

Devotional: Jesus modeled what it looks like to love people in their sin and brokenness. He didn’t come to be served, but to serve. As His followers, we’re called to imitate that humble, selfless love. It’s not about bashing people with truth, but meeting them where they’re at with compassion. Build meaningful relationships, listen to their stories, show them genuine care. Let them experience the kindness of God through you – the same transformative kindness that drew you to repentance. That’s how we shine His light in a hurting world.

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Tags humility, pride, sin

Sermons Worship

Freedom In Undignified Worship

Post author By Aaron Lage
Post date June 3, 2024
No Comments on Freedom In Undignified Worship

I find it’s all too easy to get caught up in the expectations and opinions of others. We worry about how we’re perceived, what people think of us, and whether we’re measuring up to some arbitrary standard of “normal” or “acceptable.” But when it comes to worship, God invites us to cast aside those concerns and embrace a radical freedom – the freedom to be undignified before our King.

The story of King David dancing before the Lord as the Ark of the Covenant was brought into Jerusalem (2 Samuel 6:12-23) is a powerful illustration of this principle. David, the most powerful man in Israel, stripped off his kingly robes and danced with abandon in the streets, leaping and twirling with all his might. His wife Michal watched from a window, and she despised him in her heart, seeing his actions as vulgar and beneath his dignity as king.

But David was unconcerned with appearances or the opinions of others. “It was before the Lord,” he declared. “I will celebrate before the Lord. I will become even more undignified than this, and I will be humiliated in my own eyes.” David understood that true worship is not about looking dignified or impressing others – it’s about pouring out our hearts before God with complete abandon.

So what does this mean for us today? It’s an invitation to let go of our self-consciousness and fully engage in worship, even if it means looking foolish in the eyes of others. It’s a call to lift our hands, dance, sing loudly, and express our devotion to God with our whole beings. This doesn’t mean we have to be disruptive or draw attention to ourselves, but it does mean being willing to step outside our comfort zones and push the boundaries of what feels “normal” or “acceptable” in church.

Of course, this is easier said than done. We all have different personalities and comfort levels when it comes to expressing ourselves. For some, simply clapping along with a worship song might feel like a big step. For others, dancing and shouting might come more naturally. The key is not to compare ourselves to others or feel pressured to worship in a certain way, but rather to focus on connecting with God from the heart.

It’s also important to recognize that our worship can be influenced by the world around us. Just as David initially transported the Ark on a cart, imitating the way the Philistines did it, we too can fall into the trap of letting cultural norms dictate how we approach God. But true worship is not about conforming to the patterns of this world – it’s about being transformed by the renewing of our minds (Romans 12:2).

Ultimately, the goal of worship is to encounter God’s presence and be changed in the process. When we let go of our inhibitions and fully engage our hearts, minds, and bodies in worship, we open ourselves up to the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. We may feel awkward or self-conscious at first, but as we press in and persevere, we’ll find a new level of freedom and joy in our relationship with God.

So let us take a cue from King David and become a little more undignified in our worship. Let us dance, sing, shout, and express our love for God with reckless abandon. Let us be more concerned with the opinion of our King than the opinions of those around us. And let us experience the true freedom and joy that comes from wholehearted, unrestrained worship.

In a world that often feels bound by expectations and limitations, worship is our opportunity to break free and experience the abundant life that Jesus promised. So let’s embrace it with all we have, and watch as God transforms us from the inside out.

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Here is a 5-day Bible reading plan and devotional guide based on this week’s sermon:

Day 1: The Heart of Worship

Reading: 2 Samuel 6:12-15

Devotional: True worship flows from the heart. Like David, we are called to celebrate God’s presence with authentic, uninhibited praise. As you come before the Lord today, lay aside any concerns about what others might think. Focus your heart on honoring God alone. Whether through singing, dancing, or silent reverence, pour out your love and adoration. Allow the joy of the Lord to fill you, releasing you to worship with greater freedom.

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Day 2: Undignified Devotion

Reading: 2 Samuel 6:16, 20-22

Devotional: In today’s culture, it’s easy to let the opinions of others dictate our worship. Yet David modeled an undignified devotion, willing to humble himself before the Lord. He cared more about exalting God than preserving his own image. Ask yourself, are you more concerned with the approval of people or the pleasure of God? Choose to follow David’s example by offering unrestrained worship, even if it means looking foolish in the eyes of the world. Trust that true honor comes from a life surrendered to God.

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Day 3: Carrying God’s Presence

Reading: 2 Samuel 6:12-13

Devotional: The Ark of the Covenant represented God’s holy presence among His people. In moving the Ark to Jerusalem, David sought to make God’s presence central to the nation. Consider how you can make God’s presence the focal point of your life. Create space to encounter Him daily through prayer and meditation on His Word. As you carry His presence with you, you’ll find strength and guidance for each moment. Let your intimacy with God overflow into worship as you celebrate His nearness.

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Day 4: Clothed in Humility

Reading: 2 Samuel 6:14, 20

Devotional: David laid aside his kingly robes, choosing instead to dress like a common worshiper. His attire reflected a heart clothed in humility. In your own life, are there areas where pride or self-importance hinder your worship? Humble yourself before the Lord today, recognizing that He alone deserves all glory and honor. Strip away any pretense or self-righteousness, coming to God with a contrite spirit. As you embrace humility, you’ll find greater freedom to worship without restraint.

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Day 5: Extravagant Worship

Reading: 2 Samuel 6:13-19

Devotional: David’s worship was marked by extravagance – in the sacrifices offered, the music played, and the praises sung. His wholehearted devotion held nothing back. Reflect on your own expressions of worship. Are you giving God your best, or merely leftovers? Consider practical ways to offer extravagant worship, whether through your time, talents, or resources. As you lavish your love upon the Lord, you’ll experience His delight and the joy of a life fully surrendered. Remember, worship is not about perfection but about the posture of your heart.