God chose us to make a difference, but He doesn’t want us to do it alone. This message series will focus on values that will inspire our church in faith, serving, generosity, and evangelism. What we can’t do alone, God empowers us to do together.

“This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.“ Matthew 3:17

1. A reverent church.

“The Lord delights in those who fear him, who put their hope in his unfailing love.” Psalm 147:11

Yare: “Fear of the Lord” -- To live with an awe-filled, reverent awareness of God’s holiness and authority.

Reverence for God is not a fear that drives us away from Him, but an awe that draws us closer to Him.

How You View God Determines How You Live

A Low View of God

• Treats God’s Word casually
• Ignores conviction
• Rationalizes sin
• Obeys only when convenient
• Knows what God says but chooses personal preference

A High View of God

• Takes God’s Word seriously
• Responds quickly to conviction
• Repents of sin
• Obeys God no matter the cost

2. Don’t allow the holy to become common.

“… 39Now when the Pharisee who had invited Him saw this, he said to himself, “If this man were a prophet He would know who and what sort of person this woman is who is touching Him, that she is a sinner!”40And Jesus responded and said to him, “Simon, I have something to say to you.” And he replied, “Say it, Teacher.” 41“A moneylender had two debtors: the one owed five hundred denarii, and the other, fifty. 42When they were unable to repay, he canceled the debts of both. So which of them will love him more?” 43Simon answered and said, “I assume the one for whom he canceled the greater debt.” And He said to him, “You have judged correctly.” 44And turning toward the woman, He said to Simon, “Do you see this woman? I entered your house; you gave Me no water for My feet, but she has wet My feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair. 45You gave Me no kiss; but she has not stopped kissing My feet since the time I came in. 46You did not anoint My head with oil, but she anointed My feet with perfume.47For this reason I say to you, her sins, which are many, have been forgiven, for she loved much; but the one who is forgiven little, loves little. …” Luke 7:36–50

Key Truth

When our awe of God fades, our view of God shrinks.

Personal Reflection: Where has God become casual to me instead of holy?   ____________________

3. Live to please God.

“Work hard to show the results of your salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him.” Philippians 2:12–13 NLT

God Gives Us

• The desire to please Him
• The power to obey Him
• The grace to live differently

* All scriptures are from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted