Discerning Our Influences

The Power of Worship Through Scripture

Psalmist Kerry Vaughn began by creating a worshipful atmosphere, singing scriptures that reverberated throughout the congregation. Her voice seemed to carry the very essence of God’s Word. When Pastor first approached the pulpit, what stood out to him was the importance of scripture—not just as something to be read, but to be spoken, sung, and lived. This set the foundation for Dr. GreGory’s powerful message, where he drew our attention to the need for discernment in our everyday actions and associations.

The Subtle Influences That Shape Us

Pastor shared a personal experience about meeting a young woman who flirted with him. Initially, it felt good to receive that attention, highlighting how subtle interactions can stir our emotions. However, he cautioned that what starts as innocent can easily grow into something more complicated if we're not vigilant. Drawing from Genesis 2:16-17, he reminded us how Eve's conversation with the serpent led her into deception.

Similarly, we often allow ourselves to engage in conversations or relationships that may seem harmless but can ultimately lead us astray. To maintain accountability and focus, Dr. GreGory emphasized the importance of having someone we can confide in—like when he texted one of the Mother's in the church about the interaction. This practice helps us remain grounded and aware of the influences around us that could divert us from God's purpose.

Plucking Up the Tares in Our Lives

The challenge for us, he emphasized, is to constantly examine our lives for these "tares" and to "pluck them up" before they take root. The concept of tares is particularly meaningful when we think of our own spiritual harvests. God desires that we bring in wheat—pure, wholesome, and abundant. Yet the enemy will try to sneak in tares, distractions, and negative influences that hinder the fullness of what God has planned for us.

God’s Loving Correction

A key point that stood out in the sermon was the idea that when God corrects us, it isn’t to condemn us but to love us into alignment with His will. His correction is part of the process of making us worthy of the kingdom of heaven, and it is a reflection of His deep care for our souls. There’s no shame in God’s correction, only the opportunity to grow and to become more in tune with His flow.

From 'Me' to 'We': Striving for Unity

Dr. GreGory also encouraged us to shift our mindset from "me" to "we," stressing the importance of unity within the body of Christ. It’s easy to focus on individual concerns, but as a church, we must move in one accord, striving toward a collective mission. When we operate with a "we" mentality, we build stronger connections and work more effectively to fulfill God’s will on earth.

Living Intentionally in God’s Flow

This sermon reminded us that living a disciplined life starts with discerning the influence of others, identifying areas in our lives that need correction, and striving to walk in unity with our church family. By doing so, we can ensure that our harvest is full of wheat, not tares, and that we remain on the path God has laid out for us.

As we move through this season, let’s take a moment to think about the seeds we're sowing in our lives and ensure they align with God’s will. Like Psalmist Kerry Vaughn, let’s worship not just through our voices but through our actions, guided by the scriptures that shape how we live each day.