Stop It! | Pastor Tom Golden and Emily Lewter
- admin
- June 10, 2024
Pastor Tom Golden began today’s sermon by addressing the common struggles of fear and anxiety that lead many of us into sin. He candidly asked the congregation, “How many of us sinned before church?” and “How many of us have a legit fear of something?” These questions set the stage for his powerful message: the simple yet profound advice, “STOP IT!” He challenged us to reflect on our thoughts and behaviors, urging us to cease actions driven by fear and anxiety.
Pastor Tom Golden began today’s sermon by addressing the common struggles of fear and anxiety that lead many of us into sin. He candidly asked the congregation, “How many of us sinned before church?” and “How many of us have a legit fear of something?” These questions set the stage for his powerful message: the simple yet profound advice, “STOP IT!” He challenged us to reflect on our thoughts and behaviors, urging us to cease actions driven by fear and anxiety.
Emily Lewter then delivered her “Five Minutes of Fire,” sharing her perspective on Psalm 1:1. She emphasized how easily we can become consumed by the minutiae of life, such as raising children, and lose sight of the joy that comes from focusing on God. Her message reminded us to prioritize our spiritual well-being over worldly concerns.
Pastor Tom resumed his sermon by exploring why humans often follow the flesh, attributing it to our desire for instant gratification. He reiterated his key message, “Just STOP IT,” and emphasized the importance of staying close to God to resist the enemy. Using the example of David, a sinful man who wrote most of the Psalms, Pastor Tom highlighted the power of repentance. David’s greatness lay in his ability to recognize his sins, repent, and use his experiences to teach others.
He warned against becoming comfortable with worldly ways, stating, “If it’s not from God, it’s not good.” When stressed, many of us turn to unhealthy habits like shopping, drugs, eating, or anger. Instead, Pastor Tom urged us to “STOP IT” and seek God.
Reflecting on the Ten Commandments, he noted that eight of them essentially tell us to “STOP IT.” He encouraged us to seek God’s guidance with life’s questions rather than turning to people who do not follow God.
The closing message was clear and powerful: “Today, stop it. Stop seeking the things of the world.”
Psalm 1
1 Blessed is the one
who does not walk in step with the wicked
or stand in the way that sinners take
or sit in the company of mockers,
Related Messages