As we go to church this morning whether in person or online, here are some things to consider.

9 If anyone turns a deaf ear to instruction, even his prayers are detestable.

We go to church to commune with the Lord through music, preaching, and other believers. The entire event is designed (although, sometimes not very well) for communion with the Lord to happen. Are we taking advantage of this event to commune with Him?

13 Whoever conceals his sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy.

Can we really keep anything from God? The only person we are fooling is ourselves. If there is sin that you don’t want to give up, be open with God about it–and then ask Him to give you the desire to give it up and then the power to do so. This process is the Christian life in a nutshell.

14 Blessed is the one who always trembles before God, but whoever hardens his heart falls into trouble.

If we are so arrogant that we can spurn God, just know that we are headed for either destruction or discipline. How can we be so “bold” with God? Do we not realize how much He loves us? Do we not know that sin destroys us? Let us do as Hebrews 4:16 says, “Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.”

When a country is rebellious, it has many rulers, but a ruler with discernment and knowledge maintains order.

There are two warnings in this verse:

1. If we are rebellious, then we as a church will go through many “rulers.” How blessed we are at Brookwood to have Bryan Gilbert for nearly 17 years!
2. Our “ruler” needs discernment and knowledge to maintain order. We should pray for him.

Here is how I pray for our church and my pastor:

• May we seek oneness of mind and spirit even in the midst of diversity;
• May we seek faithfulness even in the midst of turmoil in our city, state, and country;
• May we seek reconciliation among members when disagreement arises;
• May we seek truth to be revealed, taught, and obeyed by everyone;
• May our pastor be blessed with spiritual wisdom, discernment, and prudence; may he increase in knowledge and understanding; may he receive a word from You, O God, for Brookwood.

This morning, let’s make it all about Him. He is our God. Let’s praise Him.

Abba, may You be praised this morning and evening as the Brookwood fellowship gathers in Your name. As we hear from You, may we worship You in response to what You reveal to us. It’s all about You. May we always remember that. And may the name of our Lord Jesus Christ be lifted up! Amen.