While God alone is in a place to judge the hearts of men, the outward actions typically reflect the inner state of being. If someone is living in clear immorality and directly opposing God in their lifestyle, it is not out of place to assume they are far from God. On the other hand, as Pastor Danny will point out in today’s message, if you think of the Pharisees, just because someone appears to be righteous on the outside, that doesn’t necessarily reflect a heart that is submitted to God.

There are a lot of ideas out there of who Jesus is or was. Many religions may acknowledge Him as a great man and teacher, or even as a god, but they fall short of the wholeness of the Gospel or they add other elements to it. As Pastor Danny warns in today’s message, as much as our culture might push us to tolerate or even embrace other religions – and we certainly should love the people who have been deceived into them – you need to be on guard against the deceptive nature of their beliefs.

It’s humbling to think of yourself as dirt. But, that’s what we all come from. This brings even more beauty to the symbolism of the parable of the sower. As Pastor Danny points out in today’s message, you don’t have control over much, but you can choose what kind of soil you are going to be. Are you going to be receptive to the truth God sows into your life, even when it contradicts your natural desires or inclinations? Or are you going to resist and only take the truth that you like?

As you follow Christ, you will often feel like you’re missing out on the things of this world. You’ll see friends enjoying the spoils of selfish living and you may be tempted to covet their lifestyle or possessions. But, as Pastor Danny encourages us in today’s message, don’t lose heart. This life is hard. But, it will all be worth it. The eternal rewards you have to look forward to transcend any temporary pleasure or joy you can find in even the best experiences this world has to offer.

Where are you investing your time, energy or resources? If “God” isn’t your first response, then it’s time to take a step back and evaluate your focus. As Pastor Danny will illustrate in today’s message, the things of this world can easily draw us away from our one true love. God isn’t against you having hobbies, cars, houses, vacations, or whatever it may be, but in some cases, it may be better to forego those things altogether if they are taking precedence to serving and walking with Him.