I want to share a recap of the sermon I preached on Sunday, July 23rd, 2023. We discussed the importance of being cautious with our words and considering if they need to be said, if they are kind, truthful, and just our opinion. But when there is a need and time to speak up, we should be bold for the Lord.
We delved into the story of Stephen from Acts chapter 7, a faithful disciple who fearlessly spoke the truth and challenged the religious leadership of his time. Stephen faced immense trouble for his words and was eventually killed for his boldness. His story reminds us of the responsibility we have as Christians to amplify God's message and speak the gospel with courage and conviction.
We then transitioned to the powerful story of Doris Miller, an African-American sailor during the Pearl Harbor attack in 1941. Despite facing racial prejudice and limited opportunities, Miller demonstrated incredible bravery and emotional intelligence during the attack. He took charge of a 50-caliber machine gun and saved many lives, even though he had not received training for it. Miller's actions earned him the Navy Cross, making him the first African American to receive such an honor. His story highlights the importance of preparing our hearts for Christ, enhancing our emotional intelligence, standing our ground for the sake of others, and acknowledging the glory of Jesus in our lives.
Preparing our hearts for Jesus means acknowledging Him as our King and letting the gospel dictate how we manage our time, talents, and treasure. It's about shifting our priorities and aligning ourselves with God's will. We must be ready to face challenges with the help of Jesus, knowing that we can effectively prepare for what lies ahead.
In conclusion, let us remember the stories of Stephen and Doris Miller as examples of boldness, courage, and faithfulness. Just as they prepared their hearts for the trials they faced, may we also be diligent in preparing our hearts for the challenges and opportunities that come our way. Let us trust in the power of the Holy Spirit to guide us and be willing to amplify God's message in all aspects of our lives because challenges will come our way, but with Jesus in our hearts, we can face them with faith, courage, and hope.
May the joy of the Lord be with you all. Remember, let every heart prepare Him room, and may God's grace and love guide us every step of the way. Amen.
