Pleasing God or Pleasing Ourselves?

When people attend church, their motivations can vary. Some come seeking comfort, inspiration, friendship, or encouragement. Others attend out of habit or tradition. While these reasons are understandable, Scripture teaches that the primary purpose of church is not self-fulfillment, but honoring and pleasing God. When personal satisfaction becomes the central goal, the focus of worship subtly shifts away from its true foundation.

A God-Centered Foundation

The Bible consistently presents worship as God-centered. Jesus teaches in John 4:24 that:

"God is spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth."

Worship is not designed to entertain or gratify human preferences; it is an act of reverence directed toward God. Likewise, Colossians 3:23 instructs believers:

"Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men."

This principle applies directly to corporate worship. The aim is to glorify God, not ourselves.

The Danger of People-Pleasing

The apostle Paul addresses the danger of people-pleasing in Galatians 1:10:

"For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ."

Although Paul refers specifically to preaching the gospel, the principle extends to worship. When church becomes primarily about personal enjoyment, social status, or emotional comfort, the heart drifts from serving God to serving self.

Fellowship and Growth

This does not mean that experiencing joy, encouragement, or peace in church is wrong. In fact, Scripture shows that believers are strengthened through fellowship. Hebrews 10:24-25 encourages Christians not to neglect meeting together, but to gather "in order to stir up one another to love and good works."

Church is meant to build up the body of Christ. Encouragement and spiritual renewal are blessings that flow from genuine worship. However, spiritual growth often requires challenge and conviction. 2 Timothy 3:16 reminds believers that:

"All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness."

Correction is rarely comfortable, yet it is necessary for maturity. If individuals attend church only for what feels good, they may resist messages that confront sin or call for repentance. James 1:22 further warns:

"But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves."

Worship that centers on self can easily become passive rather than transformative.

Finding True Fulfillment

At the same time, God does not ignore human need. Psalm 16:11 declares:

"In your presence there is fullness of joy."

True joy is found not in pursuing self-gratification, but in drawing near to God. When believers prioritize pleasing Him, personal fulfillment often follows as a natural result. Ultimately, church is not a performance for human satisfaction, but a sacred gathering for God's glory. 1 Corinthians 10:31 summarizes this calling:

"So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God."

When God remains at the center of worship, believers find that their hearts are shaped, strengthened, and satisfied in ways far deeper than self-focused religion could ever provide. Pleasing God must come first; personal blessing follows in its proper place.

*******

Hear more messages and find out more about Oyster Bay Church of Christ in Crawfordville, FL on our website: https://www.obcoc.org/

And here: https://pearlsofwisdomonline.org/

Are We Willing to Carry the Sheep?

The parable of the lost sheep found in Luke 15:3-7 is one of Jesus' most powerful illustrations of God's love for those who wander away. In this parable, a shepherd leaves 99 sheep in the wilderness and goes in search of one that has been lost. When he finally finds it, Jesus describes a remarkable moment:

"...and when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing." (Luke 15:5)

This simple detail carries a deep spiritual meaning. It raises an important question for believers today: Are we willing to carry the sheep?

The Shepherd’s Burden

In ancient Israel, shepherds had a deep sense of responsibility for the flock. When a sheep wandered away, it often became frightened, injured, or too exhausted to return on its own. At that point, the shepherd would lift the animal and carry it across his shoulders back to safety. This was not an easy task. Sheep can be heavy, and the journey back could be long. Yet, the shepherd willingly bore the burden because the sheep was valuable to him.

The Heart of Christ

Jesus uses this familiar image to reveal God's heart toward those who are spiritually lost. The shepherd in the parable represents Jesus, who actively seeks those who have wandered away from God. Jesus described his mission in Luke 19:10 when he said:

"...for the Son of Man is come to seek and save that which was lost."

Just as the shepherd searches until he finds the sheep, Jesus pursues those who are separated from him. The moment when the shepherd carries the sheep on his shoulders is especially meaningful. The sheep does not return by its own strength; the shepherd personally carries the burden of bringing it to safety. This reflects the compassion and care that Jesus shows to those who repent and return to him.

Jesus also described himself as the caring protector of his people in John 10:11, saying:

"...I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep."

His willingness to sacrifice for the flock demonstrates the depth of God's love.

Our Call to Action

However, the parable does not only teach about the work of Jesus; it also challenges those who follow him. If we claim to follow the Good Shepherd, we should also reflect his concern for the lost. Many people today feel spiritually lost, burdened, or disconnected from God. Reaching out to them may require patience, compassion, and personal effort. Sometimes it means helping someone who is struggling, encouraging someone who has wandered from the faith, or guiding someone back to the truth.

Carrying the sheep can be difficult. It may require time, emotional energy, and a willingness to put the needs of others before our own comfort. Yet, the parable reminds us that every individual matters. When the shepherd finds the lost sheep, he rejoices greatly. Jesus explains the meaning in Luke 15:7, saying that there is joy in heaven over one sinner who repents.

Ultimately, the question remains: Are you willing to carry the sheep? Following Jesus means more than simply remaining among the 99. It means sharing the heart of the Good Shepherd—seeking the lost, seeking those who are struggling, lifting them up when they cannot walk, and rejoicing when they are restored. By showing compassion and care for those who wander, believers can reflect the same love that God has shown to them.

*******

Hear more messages and find out more about Oyster Bay Church of Christ in Crawfordville, FL on our website: https://www.obcoc.org/

And here: https://pearlsofwisdomonline.org/

In this powerful teaching, Dr. Ghia Kelly challenges believers to move beyond "mouth worship" and into total devotion. Drawing from the book of Ezekiel, she explains that God is not looking for perfection, but He is demanding exclusivity. If you have felt stuck in your spiritual walk or find yourself constantly seeking signs rather than hearing God's voice, it may be time for a spiritual "medical procedure" to remove the idols you have internalized.

-- Dr. Ghia Kelly defines the "heart" (Hebrew: lebab) as the seat of your appetites, emotions, and conscience, representing the "real you" that God wants to occupy.

-- Idolatry is not just bowing to statues; it is any excessive devotion to things like image, ambition, people-pleasing, or digital distractions that threaten God's position.

-- There are four primary types of idols: physical (money/objects), spiritual (legalism/seeking signs), emotional (soul ties/addictions), and mental (prideful mindsets/worry).

-- True repentance requires a change of mind and heart, but renunciation is the formal act of cutting ties and forsaking the things that previously bound you.

-- God is a "jealous God" not out of insecurity, but because He knows that any divided loyalty will eventually lead to neglect and spiritual adultery.

Scriptures for Further Study

-- Ezekiel 14:1-6

+++++++

Pastors Joseph and Robbin Davis

Follow Us https://www.facebook.com/truthgatherers/

Ways to Give Cash App: $truthgatherers www.easytithe.com/TGDC Text to Give - Text the amount to (850) 898-9848

In this episode of Anchored by Truth, hosts Victoria K and R.D. Fierro dive into a new segment of their "Bible in Song" series, focusing on the track "Creation’s Truth." They challenge the "dystopian trifecta" of deep time, uniformitarianism, and evolution that dominates modern culture. By returning to the opening verses of Genesis, the discussion moves beyond mere intellectual debate and into the heart of the Gospel. The episode emphasizes that understanding God as Creator is the only way to make sense of man's authority, the reality of the Fall, and the necessity of Jesus Christ's redemption. Through logic and melody, they demonstrate that faith isn't just a feeling, it is the most reasonable response to the world we see.

-- The necessity of apologetics in modern evangelism to bridge the gap between "science" and faith.

-- The "Dominion Mandate" and how man’s authority over the earth is derived solely from God.

-- The roles of Adam and Eve as a complementary pair essential for fulfilling God's commands.

-- How the denial of a Creator is a self-defeating argument that relies on logic and senses that evolution cannot explain.

-- The transition from the "perfect Eden" to a fallen world where death and decay became reality.

-- The role of creative arts and music in glorifying God and teaching complex Biblical truths.

Scriptures for Further Study

-- Genesis 1:1-5

-- Genesis 1:18

-- Genesis 1:27-28

-- 1 Peter 3:15

-- John 14:6

This is episode 364.

+++++++

You can find more information here: http://www.crystalseabooks.com/

From Resurrection to Power: The Purpose of the Wait

In this episode, Pastor Mike Jenkins breaks down the timeline between the Resurrection, the Ascension, and Pentecost, explaining why the "waiting period" is just as divine as the miracle itself. He challenges the idea that the church is a building, reminding every believer that they are the strategy God has chosen to reach the lost.

-- Everything changed after the resurrection, shifted at the ascension, but the biggest change occurred at Pentecost.

-- The gospel is simple: it is the life, death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, and that resurrection is the power that gives the message its strength.

-- Every believer should be able to articulate their faith and conversion experience in 10 to 15 seconds, because "if Jesus is alive, everything changes."

-- Failure does not finish you; just as Peter was restored after his denial, God restores broken people to become mighty witnesses.

-- Waiting is not wasted time; God works behind the scenes during our "waiting seasons" to prepare us for what is next.

-- Prayer must precede power; we must position ourselves in unity and "pregnant expectation" for the manifestation of God’s presence.

-- The Holy Spirit is the one who empowers believers, turning natural fear and insecurity into supernatural boldness for the mission.

Scriptures for Further Study

-- Luke 24

-- John 20

-- Acts 1-2

-- 1 Corinthians 15:58

-- John 13:35

In this opening message of the series "From the Cross to Pentecost," Pastor Steve Dow explores the profound connection between the timing of Jesus’ sacrifice and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. By examining the "clear and unclear" hours of the crucifixion, we learn that God often works in the midst of our confusion and darkness to bring about a revelation that changes everything.

-- The significance of the third, sixth, and ninth hours in both the crucifixion and the Book of Acts.

-- Why the darkness that covered the land for three hours represents the times in our lives when God's plan feels "cloaked" or confusing.

-- The power of the Cross to destroy human prejudice, bigotry, and the walls we build between different ethnicities and backgrounds.

-- A deep dive into the story of Cornelius and Peter, showing how God uses specific moments in time to break religious traditions and expand His kingdom.

-- The truth that salvation is not about religious "dos and don'ts" but a radical transformation through the person of Jesus Christ.

Scriptures for Further Study

-- Matthew 27:45-54

-- Mark 15:25

-- Acts 1:8

-- Acts 2:1-4

-- Acts 10:1-34

+++++++

You can find our service times on our website: https://www.anctally.com/

You can find sermon highlights on Twitter here: https://x.com/allnationstally

Pastor Shirley Albritton delivers a hard-hitting and transparent look at the state of the modern believer's heart. Using her personal battle with vertigo as a metaphor, she explores how the enemy comes to inspect our foundations for cracks—specifically cracks in our love for one another. This message challenges us to move beyond mere "tolerance" of others and into the perfecting love of Christ that casts out all fear.

--

The strong man must bind you before he can take your house; refusal to be bound is a personal choice.

--

Adversity and issues in life come to inspect your foundation to see if it is built on fear, your own will, or God’s commandments.

--

Truth should be the guiding force, not fighting with those who lack spiritual understanding.

--

Love and obedience are a "package deal," just as hate and disobedience are inseparable.

--

True love is what perfects situations and people, while money and status leave a void that only God's love can fill.

--

We must be honest about our lack of love for others to allow God the room to transform our hearts.

--

Fear is a signal that we are not yet perfected in love, as perfect love casts out all torment.

Scriptures for Further Study

--

1 John 4:4-21

--

John 14:15-16

--

Proverbs 3:1-2

--

Ephesians 2:2

--

Philippians 2:8

*******

Find more information on our website: https://www.saltandlightcovenant.com/

"Business growth happens through relationships, and when we create intentional opportunities for connection, we strengthen not only our businesses, but the entire economic fabric of the county."

— Megan Smith

In this insightful conversation, Chris Russell sits down with Megan Smith, the 2026 President of the Wakulla County Chamber of Commerce, to discuss the vision for the year. Megan outlines a strategy rooted in visibility and accessibility, emphasizing that the Chamber is not an exclusive club but a community-driven engine for growth. From international trips to local "Lunch and Learns," the focus remains on providing a meaningful return on investment for every member, ensuring that the economic fabric of Wakulla County remains strong and resilient.

-- The 2026 vision focuses on three core pillars: service, engagement, and impact, ensuring leadership is fully invested in local business success.

-- A "working board" model requires every member to be actively involved in initiatives rather than just attending meetings.

-- Face-to-face connection is prioritized as a primary driver for business growth, moving beyond the limitations of social media.

-- The Chamber continues to build on successful programs like Leadership Wakulla, the State of Wakulla event, and networking opportunities.

-- Membership is open to everyone, including individuals who want to impact the community, not just business owners.

-- Strategic goals for the year include improved communication, more impactful events, and a focus on making every member feel seen and valued.

"Expectancy is the breeding ground for miracles."

— Apostle Otis B. Young

In this stirring message, Apostle Otis B. Young dives into the spiritual mechanics of expectation and the prophetic promise found in 2 Kings 7. He teaches that positive expectation is not just a "good mood," it is a confident mental attitude and belief that favorable outcomes are coming. Using a blend of humor, personal testimony, and deep scriptural insight, Apostle Young explains that God meets us at the level of our expectations. Whether you are facing a financial famine, a health crisis, or a spiritual dry season, this teaching serves as a reminder that God can turn any situation around in less than twenty four hours.

-- He defines positive expectation as the optimistic mental attitude and belief that favorable outcomes will occur in the future.

-- He explains that "expectancy is the breeding ground for miracles" and that God often supersedes what we even think to ask for.

-- He uses a personal story about an "upsized" meal at McDonald's to illustrate how God wants to do exceedingly and abundantly more than our original "order."

-- He warns against the "inner skeptic" and the danger of having doubters at your table who can see the blessing but cannot possess it.

-- He emphasizes that our language must align with our expectation, encouraging believers to speak "by this time tomorrow" over their specific situations.

-- He highlights the importance of guarding your spirit man against doubt and skepticism, as these are the primary tools the enemy uses to steal a miracle.

Scriptures for Further Study

-- Psalm 5:3

-- 2 Kings 7:1-2

-- 2 Kings 7:18

-- Matthew 19:26

-- Mark 10:27

+++++++

Find more information on our website here: https://www.teamkingdom.business/

One Body, One Mission: The Power of the Handoff

In a world that loves to segment people by age, the church often falls into the trap of creating "silos." We have seniors in one corner and youth in another, but Chris Nelson argues that a divided church is a dying church. Using the imagery of an Olympic 4x1 relay, this teaching explores how the most critical moment of the race isn't the sprinting—it is the handoff. Whether you feel like your "season" is over or you are just getting started, there is a specific function only you can fulfill.

This message is a call to action for every generation to lean in, share their valley stories, and commit to the long-term consistency required to leave a legacy.

-- Every generation has a special gift and a specific function, much like different parts of a single human body, and we cannot function effectively if any part ceases to be engaged.

-- Generational impact requires engagement, which means being open to different perspectives and choosing to listen even when things aren't flashy or fast-paced.

-- We must prioritize sharing stories of lessons learned in the "valley" rather than just success stories from the "mountaintop," as mentorship is what prevents the next generation from repeating avoidable mistakes.

-- Consistency is the mark of a "generational player," and like Noah building the ark for decades, our long-term faithfulness guarantees the safety and faith of those who follow us.

-- Sacrifice is a daily decision to choose what is difficult now so that the reward can be reaped later, turning small, mundane acts into significant spiritual legacies.

-- True impact is impossible without the power of God, and the unchangeable Word of God must remain the standard that unifies every age group.

Scriptures for Further Study

-- Psalm 150:6

-- Romans 12:4-8

-- Galatians 6:9

-- Matthew 7:13-14

-- Hebrews 12:1-3

+++++++

Join us for church this Sunday.

For service times and meeting location please visit https://transformtlh.com/