Responding to the Sermon
Discipleship S.T.E.P.S.: Rest & Reflect
Scripture: But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. – James 1:22 (KJV)
We are experts at listening, but often beginners at doing. James 1:22 warns that hearing without doing is a path to self-deception. We can sit through hundreds of sermons and leave with knowledge, but if our feet don’t move toward obedience, our hearts are not transformed. Preparation for tomorrow begins today by looking back at what God has already spoken to us and asking: ‘Have I obeyed?’ and ‘What will I do differently tomorrow?’
As you look forward to tomorrow’s message, prepare your heart to be a ‘doer.’ Ask the Lord to give you ears to hear and a will to follow. Plan ahead so that you will not just ‘like’ the sermon or analyze its delivery, but that you will seek one specific action point for Monday morning. Faith is the obedience of the heart, and tomorrow’s message is a gift that calls for a response. Don’t let it just pass through your ears—let it enter your life.
Prompt: As you reflect on last week’s sermon or prepare for tomorrow’s, are you planning how to actively obey what you hear, not just listen to it?
Action Step: Sabbath reflection should include evaluating how well we are applying the preached Word to our daily actions and attitudes.