Ridgepoint Sermon Audio

Pastor Brent concluded the "Higher Calling" series by discussing the importance of living an intentional Christian life, outlining five key principles. He emphasized that while intentions alone aren't enough, Christians need God's Word, Spirit, and people to live intentionally, with Jesus serving as the perfect example of an intentional life focused on His mission.

Money has both a light side (enjoyment, security, generosity) and a dark side (greed, hoarding, overspending, debt). This week Pastor Brent presents four key principles for financial stewardship: give more, save more, spend less, and get out of debt. Self-control--supported by prayer and accountability--is essential for achieving financial freedom and making a positive impact.

Jesus calls Christians to practice radical hospitality and humility in their relationships. While the world prioritizes status and selective inclusion, God's kingdom welcomes all who accept His invitation. Living out this higher calling means taking the lower seat and actively inviting those typically overlooked into God's family.

God calls Christians to make a difference in the world through their unique spiritual gifts. While finding and using these gifts requires intentional effort, it leads to a life of purpose and impact. Following God's plan to serve others brings both personal fulfillment and advances His kingdom.

While most of us associate the word "worship" with singing, the Higher Calling of worship is much more. True worship is ultimately a life bowed down, a daily expression of our devotion to God.

In anticipation of the upcoming presidential election, Pastor Brent reminds us that our love and allegiance to Jesus should always outweigh our political opinions. In a culture so divided by politics, we need to remember to be kind, to pray for our leaders, and to trust in God's sovereignty.

God calls Christians to live under a higher standard. And while this higher bar is admittedly challenging, this way of life is also good and achievable with His help. Pursuing God's plans for us leads to a life that is good and satisfying and impactful.

This week Pastor Andy walks us through Jesus' invitation to learn "unforced rhythms of grace" (Matthew 11). To build this lifestyle, we need to develop a prayer and a plan to intentionally walk with Jesus. Living this way keeps us grounded, can manage life's challenges, and produces spiritual fruit.

Throughout this series, Pastor Brent has been talking about the importance of rest and Sabbath--or as we've been calling it--"ceasing." An important part of that is honest and balanced prayers to God. God invites us to cast our cares on Him, but we also need to be disciplined about listening to God through prayer, reading the Bible, and being sensitive to the Holy Spirit.

In a world that elevates busyness and speed, Jesus invites us to cease and rest. Instead of finding value in our production or accomplishments, Jesus offers a new identity--one that isn't based on what we have or what we do, but who HE says we are.