Living Beyond Words: Spotting the Difference in Our Faith Journey

Today's sermon at Global Heart Church in Lusaka, Zambia, led by Pastor Liam, challenged us to "Spot the Difference" in our lives as believers. The theme emphasized the alignment of our actions with our professed faith.

The passage from Matthew 7:21-23 served as a poignant reminder that mere words are not enough; we must actively live out the will of God in our daily lives. As believers, we shouldn't be superficial in our faith, saying one thing and doing another. Our thoughts, actions, and deeds should be a harmonious reflection of our commitment to Christ.

Pastor Liam highlighted key aspects of God's will for our lives, citing Matthew 21:32, emphasizing repentance and placing trust and faith in Christ. Gratitude, good works, sanctification, and full commitment were outlined as integral components of living in accordance with God's will, as supported by 1 Peter 2:15 "For it is God’s will and intention that by doing right [your good and honest lives] should silence (muzzle, gag) the ignorant charges and ill-informed criticisms of foolish persons."and Matthew 16:25 "For whoever wishes to save his life [in this world] will [eventually] lose it [through death], but whoever loses his life [in this world] for My sake will find it [that is, life with Me for all eternity]."

The call to be transformed and renewed, as mentioned in Romans 12:2, "And do not be conformed to this world [any longer with its superficial values and customs], but be [transformed and progressively changed [as you mature spiritually] by the renewing of your mind [focusing on godly values and ethical attitudes], so that you may prove [for yourselves] what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His plan and purpose for you]." resonated throughout the sermon.

A true Christian should undergo a continuous process of transformation, understanding God's perfect will for their lives. Remaining faithful, obedient, and patient even in difficulty allows God's purpose and calling to manifest.

The importance of surrendering our lives to God was emphasized. It involves trusting God's guidance and recognizing that His will, not ours, should prevail in all things. Pastor Liam cautioned against attributing personal desires to God, urging discernment through advice, connecting with the word of God, and seeking God's voice.

A key point was the emphasis on real relationship and fellowship with Jesus, echoing Matthew 7:22-23. Pastor Liam emphasized that gifts of God are secondary; the heart of the matter is the depth of our relationship with Jesus. Our character and actions should consistently align with our beliefs, both in public and private.

The sermon concluded with the acknowledgment that living a godly life can be costly. Following Jesus may lead to sacrifices, including losing friends, abandoning comfort zones, and taking up our cross . Yet, the message reassured that despite the challenges, the journey is ultimately worthwhile.

As we reflect on this sermon, let us examine our lives, ensuring that our actions truly spot the difference as committed believers in Christ.