JANUARY “It’s Time to Go Deeper”
SUNDAY’S SERMON SUMMARY
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Beats From Your Pastor’s Heart
LETTING GO OF THE OLD, EMBRACING THE NEW
“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” — 2 Corinthians 5:17
In our journey of faith, we are continually called to let go of our old selves and embrace the new creation we are in Christ.
The Apostle Paul’s life serves as a powerful example of this transformation.
Originally known as Saul, Paul was a fervent persecutor of the early church, driven by a zeal to suppress the spread of Christianity.
However, his encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus radically changed him.
From that moment, Paul became deeply rooted in Christ’s love, dedicating himself to spreading the gospel despite facing immense persecution and hardship.
His unwavering commitment and missionary work highlight the profound impact of being filled with God’s love and grace.
Similarly, the story of the woman at the well in John 4 illustrates the transformative power of meeting Jesus.
This woman, burdened by her past and societal stigmas, experienced a profound change when she encountered Jesus.
She left behind her waterpot—a symbol of her old life and struggles—and embraced the new life Jesus offered.
Her encounter not only transformed her but also empowered her to share her testimony, leading others to seek Jesus as well.
This act of leaving the old for the new signifies a heart transformed by Jesus, ready to live out His purposes and share His love with others.
As believers, reflecting on these examples encourages us to examine our own lives.
What old habits, sins, or mindsets do we need to leave behind?
Trusting Jesus to help us let go of the past and embrace the new life He provides is essential for our spiritual growth.
We are encouraged to write down one specific area where we desire God’s renewal, committing to allow Him to transform that aspect of our lives.
Just as cleaning out a cluttered room creates space for something fresh and beautiful, Jesus clears out the old in our lives to make room for His new work.
This clearing out allows us to experience renewal and growth in every area of our lives, much like a clean room feels refreshing and spacious.
Living in Christ means inviting Him into every moment, from big decisions to small daily tasks.
Jesus cares about everything we do and wants to guide us through challenges, providing patience, wisdom, and peace.
Our personal relationship with Jesus means we don’t have to figure everything out alone; He guides us in both big and small decisions, leading to real freedom and joy.
The more we let Jesus live in us, the more His goodness and glory shine through our actions and choices.
Church plays a vital role as communities where we share the life of Jesus and grow together.
In the church, we build deeper relationships with God and with each other, learning, encouraging, and supporting one another on our spiritual journeys.
Being part of a church community helps our faith flourish through worship, fellowship, and service.
Together, we become part of something bigger, reflecting Jesus’ heart and spreading His love to the world.
Finally, we look forward to Jesus’ return, the hope that keeps us motivated and excited.
Knowing that Jesus will come back inspires us to live with purpose and readiness, preparing ourselves and each other through love, service, and faith.
This anticipation gives our lives eternal meaning, encouraging us to live out our faith boldly and joyfully each day.
As we prepare for His return, we grow closer to Him and to one another, building a community that reflects His love and grace.
To let go of the old and embrace the new, we can dedicate time each day for personal Bible study and prayer, focusing on scriptures that highlight renewal and transformation.
Identifying and addressing areas in our lives that need renewal allows us to create space for God’s new work.
Engaging in acts of service helps us to live out Jesus’ love in practical ways, while staying open to the Holy Spirit’s guidance ensures that our decisions and actions align with God’s will.
Additionally, setting aside regular times for family worship and participating in community service projects fosters unity and purpose, reflecting Christ’s love in our interactions.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, I give You my past and the things that hold me back. Help me to embrace the new life You offer and walk in the freedom of Your love. Transform me into the person You created me to be. Let go of my old habits, sins, and mindsets, and renew my heart and mind with Your truth. Fill me with Your Spirit, guiding me to live out Your purposes and share Your love with others. In Your precious name, Amen.
As we dedicate ourselves to “It’s Time to Go Deeper,” let us commit to seeking God with all our hearts, understanding that spiritual growth requires intentionality and sacrifice.
There is no neutral ground in our spiritual journey—either we advance or we fall behind.
By seeking deeper, higher, and wiser in our walk with our blessed Lord, we ensure that our faith remains dynamic and resilient, capable of withstanding the trials and tribulations that life inevitably brings.
Let this year be a testament to the incredible blessings that come from drawing nearer to Jesus, embracing the wisdom of the Holy Spirit, and living out our faith with renewed passion and purpose.
May 2025 be a year of spiritual depth, intimacy with God, and abundant blessings as we honor Him with every step we take.
TUESDAY’S PRAYER REQUESTS
Rebecca Smith
Michael Stanley
Mrs. Franklin – Joanie & Jeanie’s Mom – Vision Problems
Greg Schriener
Angela Bryan’s Sister
Ben Bruce
Carol Lawhead
Danny Jarrard
Darlene Wiggins
David Newby
Denise Hulsey – Jordan’s G’mother
Donna Plunkett’s Brother-in-law
Doris Loyd
Dr. and Mrs. Davis
Ellen Boyd
Eric Magnusson’s Mother
Eric Ward
Faith Burnette
Friend of Linda Hodge
Gail Sparks
George & Linda Alexander
George Calhoon
James Burnette
James Parker
Jessica Headrick
Jodi Bateman
John McClain’s Mother
June Cronan’s Sister
June Davis
Kailey Bateman
Kathryn Raines
Kim McClain’s Mother
Kim McClain’s Sister
Krista Hilscher
Larry Barker
Lee Cronan
Lillanna Magnusson’s Mom
Linda Breedlove’s Sister – Sarah
Linda Hodges’ Sister
Linda Lanier
Lonzo Christian
Lori Blount’s Mother
Mary William’s Granddaughter
Mary Williams
Mary Williamson – Dana Jackson’s Mom
Mike Bryan
Nora Allison
Pastor Driskell
Rose Fuller – Pruitt-Monroe Nursing Home, Forsyth GA
Scott Lanier
Steve Michaels
Tom Witcher