Believing And Belonging

Preached by Pastor Godman Akinlabi

1 Corinthians 15:10; Psalm 84:13; Psalm 92:12-15

Summary

Sermon Notes

BELIEVING AND BELONGING We are deeply grateful for the abundant Grace that you have bestowed upon us, Father Lord. It is by your Grace that we are able to stand here today, to worship you, to lift our hands in praise, and to express our gratitude. Your Grace sustains us, guides us, and empowers us to face each day with faith and strength. Without your Grace, we would be lost, stumbling in darkness, unable to find our way. We acknowledge that every good thing in our lives comes from you, and we give thanks for your unwavering love and mercy. As we gather together, whether in person or online, we come before you with hearts full of thanksgiving. We recognize that it is only through your Grace that we are able to experience the blessings and favor that you pour out upon us. Your Grace is a gift that we do not deserve, yet you freely give it to us out of your great love for us. We acknowledge our dependence on your Grace, knowing that without it, we would be nothing. We lift our voices in praise and adoration, declaring our gratitude for all that you have done for us. Father, we thank you for the 11 years of Grace that you have showered upon the Elevation Church. We are grateful for the countless blessings and miracles that you have brought into our lives, both individually and as a church family. We acknowledge that it is your Grace that has sustained us, guided us, and enabled us to grow and thrive. As we continue to worship you and seek your presence, we ask that you continue to pour out your Grace upon us, that we may be transformed, inspired, and renewed by your love. Holy Spirit, we invite you to move in our midst, to minister Grace to every heart, and to reveal yourself to us in new and powerful ways. May this service be a time of transformation and renewal, as we give you the right of way to work in our lives. Today, we gather in this service with the expectation that every life present, whether physically in the room or joining virtually, will be touched and transformed by the healing power that is present. We express our gratitude to the everlasting father and honor him in the precious name of Jesus. Let us all join together in praising God and appreciating Jesus for the opportunity to be part of this service. A special welcome is extended to those joining us online, whether on the road, at the airport, or at home. It is time to wake up and fully engage in this transformative experience. We encourage everyone to put distractions aside and prepare to receive the blessings of God's Word, knowing that this will be a time of transformation for each individual in Jesus' name. As we come together, it is important to acknowledge and greet those around us. The Apostle Paul's words in 1st Corinthians 15, verse 10, remind us that we are what we are by the grace of God. Whether we have reached our desired goals or are still striving to get there, it is the grace of God that sustains us. Paul emphasizes that the grace of God upon our lives should not be in vain, but rather, it should be productive and fruitful. This serves as a reminder that our lives are a result of God's grace, and it is through this grace that we are able to achieve and grow. Therefore, as we continue in this service, let us be mindful of the transformative power of God's grace. Let us open our hearts and minds to receive the message that will be shared, knowing that it has the potential to bring about positive change in our lives. Let us also take a moment to greet those around us, extending a warm welcome and fostering a sense of community. As we move forward, let us do so with the understanding that we are all beneficiaries of God's grace, and it is through this grace that we are able to grow, transform, and impact the world around us. The ongoing teaching series, known as 'Journey into Greatness,' emphasizes the importance of relying on the grace of God throughout our journey towards greatness. This series was initiated as part of the celebrations for our church's anniversary, under the theme 'The Journey to Greatness.' The core mission of our church is to make greatness a common attribute among individuals. We firmly believe that every person, regardless of gender, possesses the potential for greatness, a seed that has been sown by God. The Elevation Church aims to provide a nurturing environment where this seed can flourish in the lives of all who come into our congregation. It is crucial to understand that greatness, as defined by our church, extends beyond material wealth, possessions, or social status. While these aspects are not discounted, true greatness is measured by one's ability to serve God and humanity, to fulfill their unique purpose in life. We firmly believe that each individual has been created with a specific purpose by God, irrespective of physical attributes, geographical location, or cultural background. The seed of greatness is inherent in every human being, a deliberate act of creation by God, who does not make mistakes in bringing individuals into existence. The teaching series underscores the intentional nature of our creation by God, emphasizing that each person is born with a purpose to fulfill. Regardless of external characteristics such as skin color, eye color, or geographical location, the seed of greatness is present within every individual. This message serves as a reminder that no one is a random occurrence, but rather a deliberate creation by God, placed on this earth at a specific time for a specific reason. The Elevation Church strives to create an environment where individuals can discover, nurture, and fulfill their God-given purpose, thereby allowing greatness to manifest in their lives. As we endeavor to fulfill our purpose, we embark on a journey towards achieving greatness. It is through this journey that we begin to witness the greatness of God unfolding within us. The church serves as a guiding force to assist individuals in walking through this journey and ultimately emptying themselves completely. <blockquote> The goal is to stand before God and hear Him say, "well done, good and faithful servant." </blockquote> This is the trust we place in Him, and it is the message that we are conveying today. Following a brief hiatus last Sunday to celebrate our 11th anniversary, we are back to continue our discussion on the journey to greatness and the role of the faith community, particularly the church. The first part of this message was titled "Unleash the Power," focusing on the power that resides within the local church. We emphasized the importance of coming together as a community to make the journey to greatness more fulfilling, as opposed to going alone and becoming weary. The scripture from Psalm 92, verses 12 to 15, was referenced to illustrate the flourishing of the righteous and those planted in the house of the Lord. The passage from Psalm 92 speaks of the righteous flourishing like a palm tree and growing like the Cedar of Lebanon. It emphasizes the significance of being planted in the house of the Lord, where individuals can flourish in the courts of God. The message conveys the idea that even in old age, those rooted in the house of the Lord will remain fresh and bear fruit, ultimately declaring the uprightness of the Lord. This serves as a reminder of the power and righteousness of God, and the importance of being part of a faith community in the journey to greatness. In order to achieve greatness in my journey, it is essential that I remain connected not only to Christ but also to His body, the church. As the scripture in Psalm 84 verse 13 states, those who are planted in the house of God shall flourish in the courts of our God. This emphasizes the importance of being rooted in a faith community, as it is where we are deliberately planted by God to grow and thrive. Believing in Christ is crucial, but belonging to a community of believers is equally significant for spiritual growth and progress. The theme of 'believing and belonging' is central to our discussion today as we delve deeper into the concept of being rooted in the house of God. Psalm 84 serves as a reminder of the benefits of flourishing in the courts of our God when we are planted in His house. By reading and reflecting on this scripture together as a congregation, we are reinforcing the idea of unity and fellowship within the body of Christ. Believing in the Lord is the foundation, but belonging to a community of believers strengthens and supports our faith journey. As we come together to read Psalm 84 from verse 1 to 12, we are reminded of the importance of unity and participation within the church community. By engaging in this congregational reading, we are not only reinforcing our faith but also demonstrating our commitment to being part of a larger spiritual family. Let us continue to believe in the Lord and belong to His body, knowing that our growth and flourishing are intricately connected to our active participation in the faith community. Let us read together, reflect together, and grow together in our journey to greatness. The passage from Psalm 84, specifically verse 10, emphasizes the profound value of being in the presence of the Lord. It conveys a sentiment of deep appreciation for the spiritual nourishment and fulfillment that can be found within the house of God. The comparison drawn between spending a day in the courts of the Lord versus a thousand elsewhere highlights the incomparable joy and satisfaction that comes from being connected to God's dwelling place. The imagery of being a doorkeeper in the house of God rather than dwelling in the tents of wickedness underscores the importance of prioritizing spiritual growth and connection with God over worldly distractions and temptations. The verse reflects a sense of longing and reverence for the sanctuary of God, where one can experience true peace and fulfillment. It speaks to the idea that being in God's presence is far more valuable and rewarding than any other pursuit or indulgence. The contrast between the house of God and the tents of wickedness serves as a reminder of the choices individuals make in terms of where they invest their time, energy, and devotion. It encourages a shift in focus towards seeking spiritual nourishment and growth within the community of believers rather than being enticed by worldly pleasures and distractions. Ultimately, the passage conveys a message of prioritizing one's relationship with God and the spiritual community over worldly pursuits that may lead one astray. It underscores the significance of finding fulfillment and purpose in serving God and being actively engaged in His kingdom. By choosing to be a part of God's house and dedicating oneself to His service, one can experience a deep sense of belonging and purpose that surpasses any temporary pleasure or distraction that the world may offer. The description of alternative options as tents of wickedness serves as a stark reminder of the importance of aligning one's priorities with the values and teachings of the faith community. The most significant indicators of fulfillment for a believer should stem from the profound connection to Christ and His body, as highlighted by the Psalmist. The journey described in the text, likened to passing through the valley of Baka, symbolizes a transformation where dry land is transformed into streams of water. This imagery signifies that as believers walk with God in Christ, remarkable things occur around them. Therefore, the ultimate sense of fulfillment for a believer should be rooted in their relationship with Christ and their involvement in His body. It is crucial to pause and reflect on where we derive our sense of fulfillment, especially as believers. Some individuals may find fulfillment in their work, financial status, or social circle, while others may draw it from their family connections. For instance, family-oriented individuals may feel the greatest sense of fulfillment when surrounded by their loved ones. The recent example of a family gathering via a virtual platform, as mentioned in the text, illustrates the importance of family ties in providing a sense of fulfillment and belonging. In essence, the source of our fulfillment as believers should be deeply intertwined with our connection to Christ and His body. While external factors such as work, finances, friendships, and family relationships may contribute to our overall well-being, the truest and most enduring fulfillment comes from our spiritual journey and relationship with God. By prioritizing our connection to Christ and actively participating in His body, we can experience a profound sense of fulfillment that transcends material possessions or social status. Ultimately, understanding where our greatest sense of fulfillment originates from allows us to align our priorities and values with our faith, leading to a more meaningful and purposeful life. When we gather with our siblings, it is a simple exchange of greetings, with everyone saying hello. While our family and parents are doing well, and work seems to be going smoothly, there is a deeper level of fulfillment that should be sought after. This fulfillment should not only come from the mundane aspects of life, but also from being closely connected to Christ and His body. A functional Christian integrates their faith seamlessly into their daily life, finding fulfillment not just in earthly matters, but also in their spiritual journey. The sense of fulfillment that comes from being vitally connected to Christ and His body is crucial for believers. It is important to not only believe in Christ, but also to feel a sense of belonging to His kingdom. This belonging adds a layer of functionality to one's faith, allowing for a deeper understanding of purpose and fulfillment. Without this connection, one may feel a sense of emptiness, as if something crucial is missing from their life. Lack of proper discipleship and a sense of belonging can lead to believers straying from their faith and becoming rascally in their actions. This lack of guidance can manifest in various aspects of life, such as politics, business, career, or even in setting up one's family. In some regions, like Africa or Nigeria, this can be seen in the form of street urchins known as "area boys." It is essential to address this issue by reevaluating one's priorities, seeking a deeper connection to Christ, and understanding the importance of belonging to a community of believers. The church has been actively involved in various initiatives over the years, and one of the recent projects that has been particularly impactful is the establishment of a shelter for street kids. By reaching out to these vulnerable children at an early age, the church aims to address issues before they escalate into more complex challenges that adults may face. This proactive approach is crucial in providing support and guidance to prevent negative outcomes such as addiction, anger, and other destructive behaviors that can arise when individuals are left to fend for themselves without proper guidance and care. It is evident that individuals who end up on the streets, disregarding societal norms and rules, often have experienced a disconnect from the foundational values that should be instilled within a family unit. The church recognizes the importance of family in shaping individuals' beliefs, behaviors, and character. By emphasizing the significance of family values and teachings, the church aims to guide individuals back to a path that aligns with God's original intention for human relationships and interactions. Through spiritual guidance and support, the church seeks to address the root causes of deviant behavior and help individuals reconnect with their faith and values. The church acknowledges the presence of individuals who claim to be believers but do not exhibit the character of God in their actions. These "rascally believers" may cause harm to families, organizations, and even nations despite professing their faith in Christ. By highlighting the importance of embodying the teachings of Christ in one's behavior and interactions, the church aims to differentiate true believers from those who merely pay lip service to their faith. Through introspection and spiritual guidance, individuals are encouraged to reflect on their actions and align them with the values and principles of Christianity to avoid causing harm and discord in their communities. When I was explaining to a young boy that I was mentoring some time ago, I asked him to recall his first experiences in elementary school. I inquired about the initial tasks he was given to complete. I mentioned that one of the activities typically assigned in kindergarten is coloring. I described how young children are given a sheet of paper with a simple picture, such as an apple or a ball, and are instructed to color it. I emphasized that at a very young age, around one to two years old, children tend to scribble all over the page without regard for the boundaries of the image. I then asked the audience, which included teachers, if my description was accurate. I also mentioned that although I am not a classroom teacher, I still consider myself a teacher to my colleagues. I continued by explaining that when a child reaches the age of four or five and continues to color outside the lines, it may indicate a problem. I asked the teachers in the audience to raise their hands to confirm my statement. I then elaborated on the implications of a child consistently coloring outside the boundaries, suggesting that it could be a sign of a learning disability or other issues. I drew a parallel between this behavior and adults who consistently fail to adhere to boundaries in life, such as in marriage or business. I emphasized the importance of managing what one has been given and exhibiting the character of Christ. I concluded by highlighting the significance of being held accountable and being taught submission and discipline, particularly within the context of Christian discipleship. I emphasized the importance of instilling a sense of decorum and discipline in individuals, drawing a distinction between those who are raised in a home environment and those who grow up on the streets. I stressed the role of parents in nurturing and guiding their children, underscoring the impact of proper upbringing on an individual's behavior and character. In this season, there have been numerous inquiries regarding the purpose of the church and the significance of attending church services. It is essential to understand that being part of a church family is crucial for spiritual growth and development. Belonging to a church community is not just a social obligation, but it is rooted in God's original intention for His people to come together as a family. The smallest unit, as mentioned in the Bible, is a family, and through this unit, we can comprehend the invisible attributes of God. The early church, as depicted in Acts chapters 2, 4, and 5, exemplified a family of faith where believers were united in spirit and purpose. The story of Ananias and Sapphira serves as a cautionary tale, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the family spirit within the church community. The Holy Spirit's presence was palpable in the early church, leading to various manifestations of His power as believers remained united and obedient to God's word. While church attendance is a vital aspect of belonging to a church family, true belonging goes beyond physical presence in services. It involves intentionally building relationships with Christ and fellow believers, actively participating in the spiritual growth of the community. In today's context, some individuals may be socially distancing from the church while engaging in other social activities, highlighting the need for a genuine connection with the body of Christ. Ultimately, building a family of faith requires commitment, dedication, and a willingness to align with God's purposes for His people. It is important to acknowledge the efforts of those who continue to participate in online services. However, it is crucial to reflect on the level of functionality in one's spiritual life. Merely being present online does not guarantee a deep connection with Christ and His body. It is essential to evaluate the depth of this connection and consider how it translates into daily life and interactions with others. The focus should not solely be on physical attendance at gatherings, but rather on the relationship with Christ and His body. The current circumstances, such as the impact of Covid-19 and the concept of social distancing, have brought about a shift in priorities. It is a time to reevaluate one's spiritual journey and ensure that there is alignment with the teachings of Christ, regardless of the physical setting. The past year and a half have presented challenges that have led some individuals to distance themselves not only socially but also spiritually. It is crucial to reexamine priorities and realign with the teachings of Christ. This includes not neglecting the spiritual upbringing of children and ensuring that one's connection with Christ and His body remains strong, whether through online platforms or in-person gatherings. It is a time to refocus and prioritize spiritual growth and connection with the community of believers. Several months ago, I had a conversation with a family couple in the church. It was around October last year when we had just started gathering in person again. I inquired about their well-being, expressing that I hadn't seen them in church for a while. They assured me that they were doing fine, but I couldn't help but ask about their children. I emphasized the importance of ensuring that their kids were engaging with the church online regularly, just as they did with their schoolwork. I pointed out that consistency was key, especially when it came to their spiritual development. I stressed to the woman that she needed to prioritize her children's spiritual growth just as she did with their academics. I highlighted the significance of maintaining a balance between the two, as neglecting one aspect could potentially hinder their overall development. I urged her to consider the long-term impact of investing in their education without providing them with a solid spiritual foundation. It was essential for her to understand that sporadic engagement with church activities might not suffice in nurturing their faith. I proceeded to discuss the importance of maintaining a strong connection to Christ and His body, regardless of physical location. I emphasized that one's relationship with Christ should not be contingent upon attending church events or programs. In the digital age, it was crucial to prioritize spiritual growth and engagement with the Christian community, irrespective of external factors. I highlighted the need to shift focus from mere participation in events to actively pursuing a deeper connection with Christ and His kingdom. Ultimately, I underscored the significance of fostering a sense of belonging to the house of God and taking up responsibilities for the advancement of the kingdom. Paul's message to the Corinthians in First Corinthians chapter 3 was a stern one, as he addressed their behavior and spiritual maturity. He emphasized that he had to speak to them as though they were still worldly or as if they were spiritual infants. This approach was necessary because he perceived them as not yet ready for solid spiritual food, still being controlled by their sinful nature. Paul's words were a reflection of his concern for their spiritual growth and maturity, as he pointed out their jealousy and quarreling with one another, which he attributed to being controlled by their sinful nature. Paul's analogy of feeding them with milk instead of solid food was a way of illustrating that they were not yet ready for deeper spiritual truths. He highlighted their divisive behavior, where some claimed allegiance to him while others aligned themselves with Apollos. Paul emphasized that such behavior was akin to that of the world, rather than reflecting the unity and maturity expected of believers. He also stressed that the focus should not be on who did what, but rather on recognizing that they were all servants of God, each with a specific role in the spiritual growth of the Corinthians. Paul's message in First Corinthians chapter 3 serves as a reminder of the importance of spiritual maturity and unity within the body of believers. His words were intended to challenge the Corinthians to grow beyond their current state and to recognize that their behavior was not reflective of their identity as followers of Christ. By addressing their divisive attitudes and lack of spiritual maturity, Paul sought to guide them towards a deeper understanding of their faith and the need for unity within the church. His message continues to resonate as a call for believers to pursue spiritual growth and to embrace the unity that comes from being servants of God. The custodian of the Holy Ghost, even within small groups or units, should not be focused on people, personalities, or events. The primary focus should be on the connection to Christ and His body. While various events and activities are good, it is essential to maintain the right perspective. Chasing after personalities, programs, or places can lead to a loss of focus on the true purpose of our actions, which is centered on Christ. It is crucial to understand that accountability is key to increasing authority in Christ. Believers must submit to Godly authority and be willing to be discipled in order to maximize their authority in the kingdom. In today's world, many people treat their faith as a commodity, hopping from one church to another without a sense of belonging or accountability. The advent of distance technology has made it possible for believers to consume sermons and teachings from multiple sources without any commitment to a faith community. This approach can lead to a lack of accountability and a fragmented understanding of the faith. It is important for believers to belong to a faith community with a structured system that can hold them accountable. This prevents them from becoming rogue believers or Christians who lack discipline and accountability. Attending multiple churches and consuming various teachings may give the illusion of spiritual growth, but it is essential to consider the impact on the kingdom. Believers should not measure their faith by the number of sermons they listen to, but rather by the depth of their commitment and accountability within a faith community. It is crucial to be part of a structured faith community that can provide guidance, discipline, and accountability. This ensures that believers do not become undisciplined or lackadaisical in their faith, but rather grow in maturity and authority within the kingdom of Christ. A rebellious believer or a mischievous Christian is someone who tends to act independently and color outside the lines, disregarding rules and guidelines. This individual may choose to do things their own way, believing that belonging to a community restricts their freedom. However, being part of a group provides a sense of identity, support, and guidance. In the Passion Translation, it mentions being equipped with powerful tools to combat any form of disobedience once complete submission is chosen. This highlights the importance of obedience and the consequences of rebellion. The passage emphasizes that although believers have spiritual authority to confront evil forces, this authority can be compromised if they reject the idea of being under any form of authority themselves. Belonging to a community, being mentored, and receiving guidance are essential aspects of spiritual growth and development. The weapons mentioned in the text are not physical but spiritual, capable of tearing down strongholds and defeating any opposition that challenges the knowledge of God. This underscores the significance of being rooted in a supportive environment. Some individuals may resist the idea of organized religion, viewing it as a constraint on their freedom. However, being part of the body of Christ is not about conforming to a rigid structure but about finding a place of belonging, nourishment, and accountability. While there may be misconceptions about organized religion, it is crucial to discern the true purpose of being part of a community that aligns with God's plan for one's life. Choosing to be in a place where one can grow spiritually, receive guidance, and be held accountable is a vital aspect of fulfilling God's intentions for believers. The passage from Matthew chapter 8 illustrates a powerful lesson on authority and submission. The Centurion, a Roman soldier, approached Jesus with humility and acknowledged his own position of authority over his soldiers. He recognized that his authority came from being under a higher authority, just as Jesus' authority came from God. This acknowledgment of authority allowed the Centurion to understand the power of Jesus' words and the authority He carried. The Centurion's understanding of authority is a profound example for Christians today. He recognized that being under authority enabled him to exercise authority over others effectively. Similarly, as believers, understanding and submitting to the authority of God allows us to walk in the fullness of our own authority as Christians. This concept highlights the importance of recognizing and respecting authority structures in our lives, whether it be spiritual, familial, or societal. The analogy of a policeman or traffic warden representing authority in society further emphasizes the principle of submission to authority. Just as individuals respond to the authority figure, not the individual themselves, in the same way, spiritual beings respond to the authority that believers carry as representatives of God. This underscores the significance of upholding and respecting the authority we have been given, as any undermining of that authority can lead to chaos and disobedience, as seen in the concept of mutiny. The lesson from the Centurion's interaction with Jesus serves as a reminder of the importance of recognizing, submitting to, and exercising authority in a manner that aligns with God's divine order. In the military, individuals relinquish a certain level of autonomy as they are required to adhere to a strict chain of command. It is essential to acknowledge that many individuals have not been adequately educated on how to function under authority figures. There are certain spiritual principles that can only be grasped through proper guidance and mentorship, such as accountability, teachability, and submission to authority. It is crucial to understand that we cannot operate as independent entities within a spiritual community, as this can leave us vulnerable to exploitation by negative forces. It is imperative to recognize the significance of being under authority and to acknowledge the various levels of authority that govern our lives. As stated in Romans 13:1, every individual is called to be subject to governing authorities, as these authorities are ultimately appointed by God. As a leader within a church community, it is crucial to operate within the boundaries of established authority structures, including the authority of God, the Board of Trustees, and the Pastor's board. By adhering to these structures, the church can function effectively and maintain a sense of order and unity. It is understandable that some individuals may struggle with the concept of submission to authority due to past experiences of abuse. However, it is essential to differentiate between healthy authority structures and abusive behaviors. By embracing the concept of being under authority, individuals can experience growth, protection, and spiritual development within a community. It is crucial to foster an environment where individuals feel safe and supported under the guidance of trustworthy authority figures, rather than living in fear of abuse or exploitation. At the conclusion of today's service, I will offer a prayer for everyone present, both in person and online. I believe that God has the power to heal us from the trauma of abuse, and I will ask for this healing in the name of Jesus. However, before I move on to my final two points, I want to emphasize the importance of being sensitive to authority figures who may be abusing their power. It is crucial to recognize when someone is misusing their authority, as this behavior does not align with the character of the One who has granted them that authority. Abuse of authority can manifest in the way that individuals exercise their power, especially when their actions do not reflect the character of the One who has delegated that authority to them. For example, when pastors behave in ways that are inconsistent with the teachings of Christ, it constitutes a form of authority abuse. Similarly, in a household, a man who has been given authority over his family is expected to exercise that authority in a manner that mirrors the love and sacrifice demonstrated by Christ. This means that authority should be asserted with love and compassion, rather than through force or aggression. If you ever witness or experience authority abuse within our church community, I encourage you to speak up and challenge it. It is important to address these issues and hold individuals accountable for their actions, as this behavior does not align with the teachings of Christ. By speaking out against authority abuse, we can work towards creating a community that reflects the love, compassion, and integrity of Christ. It is possible that there will be a need for correction, otherwise you may find yourself vulnerable to abuse of authority. Are you still present and engaged today? This is the realm of God, this is the family of God, and it is imperative that we speak only the truth and nothing but the truth. Praise be to Jesus. The concept of grace is infectious and we are about to conclude our gathering in a few minutes. Grace is indeed infectious, and this is a significant point to consider. Belonging to a community grants you access to the grace that is freely available within that community. However, many individuals may be part of a church family, yet fail to reflect the grace that is present within that community in their own lives. This is often due to a lack of deep sense of belonging and active participation within that community. I am particularly fond of the description of the prophet Elisha in 2nd Kings chapter 3, verse 11. The kings, including Jehoshaphat, were seeking a prophet to provide them with guidance before they went into battle. They inquired if there was a seer in the area, and it was revealed that Elisha, the son of Shaphat, was present. The servant of the king of Israel described Elisha as the one who served Elijah and poured water on his hands. This description emphasizes the transfer of anointing from Elijah to Elisha through the act of service. It is a powerful reminder that the anointing you serve is the anointing that is poured over you. Therefore, it is essential to be willing to serve and submit oneself in the kingdom of God, consciously aware of the potential for authority abuse, yet unwavering in our commitment to serve and humble ourselves, not for the sake of individuals, but for the glory of God. In conclusion, it is crucial to remain attentive and engaged. Despite the possibility of encountering authority abuse, we must continue to serve and humble ourselves, recognizing that our actions are ultimately in service to God. By doing so, we open ourselves to the prophet's reward, as stated in the Bible. Therefore, let us remain steadfast in our commitment to truth and grace, understanding that our belonging and active participation within the family of God are essential for reflecting the grace that is available to us. Are you still present and engaged today? Psalm 1 and 33 are both beautiful and wonderful passages that emphasize the importance of unity and belonging among brothers and sisters. The imagery used in these verses, such as the oil poured upon Aaron's head and the dew flowing down the mountain of Hermon, illustrates the powerful impact of unity and connection. The text highlights the idea that God's blessing and grace are manifested when people come together in harmony and unity. It speaks of the contagious nature of grace and the apparent graces that are evident in a community that is united and connected. The passage emphasizes the divine favor, acceleration, and unusual supply of gifts that are seen in a community where unity and belonging are prioritized. It speaks of the ease with which things happen when individuals are connected and united in purpose. The text encourages individuals to find expression for the grace in their own lives by choosing to belong, connect, and serve within their faith community. It emphasizes the importance of submission, service, and promoting unity as ways to unleash the grace of the church family on one's life. The passage concludes by urging individuals to deploy their God-given talents and gifts within their church community. It emphasizes the idea that the kingdom of God prospers through the contributions of each individual, and encourages people to sign up for small groups, ask questions about how they can be connected and involved, and seek ways to be used for the purpose of the kingdom of God within their own areas of life. The text also highlights the significance of belonging and connecting with a faith community, as it defines and identifies individuals with true greatness, provides opportunities for mentoring, and helps individuals maintain a sense of identity and focus in life. The foundation of one's identity often begins with their family name, which is the first identifier they are given. As they progress through life, attending school and becoming an alumnus of prestigious organizations, additional layers of identity are added. Taking up a profession further solidifies one's sense of self, as it introduces them to the ethics and values associated with that particular field. Belonging to a faith community also plays a significant role in shaping one's identity, providing a sense of belonging and purpose. Being a part of a church community, such as the Elevation Church, offers individuals a strong sense of identity as believers. Within this community, values are instilled, connections are made, and opportunities for growth and mentorship abound. The Bible emphasizes the importance of surrounding oneself with wise companions, as they can positively influence one's journey towards greatness. Seeking purpose-driven connections based on respect, selflessness, and commitment is crucial for young leaders within the church to thrive and fulfill their potential. It is essential for individuals to identify and nurture pivotal relationships that can propel them forward in their pursuit of greatness. The story of David and Jonathan serves as a powerful example of the impact of such relationships in one's life. By seeking out and fostering connections that align with their values and goals, individuals can access gatekeepers across various areas of life and work towards fulfilling their God-given potential. Embracing the grace and guidance provided by God, individuals can navigate their journey to greatness with confidence and purpose, continually seeking growth and self-improvement. As the day comes to a close, I want to offer a prayer for anyone who may be suffering from abuse of authority, whether it be at home, in the church, or in the workplace. We want to pray for you, as we believe that God has the power to heal our hearts and give us the wisdom to navigate difficult circumstances. I invite everyone in the service, as well as those joining us online, to raise their hands as a sign of surrender to God. Let us all yield ourselves to His plan and purposes for our lives, recognizing that we are on a journey to greatness and committing to not falter in our faith. I ask everyone in the room to rise, and if you are joining us online, I encourage you to stand wherever you are. Let us express our gratitude to God by waving our hands and blessing His name. We thank Him for His blessings and ask for His guidance and strength as we continue on our journey. Let us pray for the Holy Spirit to fill us afresh and strengthen our hearts, so that we may remain connected to God's grace and find direction within His house. We seek to restore our passion for His house and functionality within His body, committing to serve Him faithfully. In closing, I encourage everyone to continue to bless the name of Jesus and to pray for His guidance and strength. Let us express our gratitude and commitment to serving God, asking for His direction and restoration of passion within our hearts. We declare that we would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of God than to dwell in the tents of wickedness, and we thank Him for His blessings. Let us continue to bless His name and seek His guidance as we journey towards greatness. As we come together in prayer this morning, let us take a moment to lift our voices in unity. Let us ask our Heavenly Father to fill our hearts with His grace and freshness. We express our desire to be faithful and to be firmly planted in the place where we are meant to be. We seek guidance to be functional and focused, so that we may fulfill our purpose in serving the Lord. Today, we pray for the wisdom to find fulfillment in the right place, which is in the will of God and His calling upon our lives. May everything we do be in service to Him and His purpose, rather than our own desires. Whether we are at home, at work, or in the community, we ask to be a beacon of light for His kingdom. Let our actions and intentions be aligned with His will, not just our own preferences. We give thanks to Jesus for His grace and the abundant supply of His blessings in our lives. We acknowledge His presence and His guidance as we navigate through each day. May His name be praised, and may His light shine through us as we strive to live according to His will. Let us continue to seek His grace and wisdom in all that we do, knowing that He is the source of our strength and purpose.

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