7 Days of "DO IT" #6- Not Speaking on My Own

This has got to be the most difficulty I've ever had on preparing a sermon. I don't know why, but nothing is coming together and I just can't picture how I'm supposed to deliver this message.

In last week's message, I spoke partially about how Jesus says when we speak on our own, we basically seek to honor ourselves.

John 7:18 "He who speaks on his own does so to gain honor for himself, but he who works for the honor of the one who sent him is a man of truth; there is nothing false about him."

It's true, when we refuse the help or guidance of another, it usually is because we want to be able to say, "I did it. On my own. No help necessary. Gyeah boy."

Early in our relationship, me and Monica went to Barnes and Nobles to find a book I needed for seminary. The first thing Monica said as we entered the store was, "Should we ask the lady at the counter where to find it?" And of course, because I'm 100% man, I said, "Nah, I got it." But if you think about it, it's really dumb. The lady could tell me where to find the book, if they even have it, how many copies they have, which floor it's on, and on which shelf. But nah, I got it.

Why do I do that? Just so I can say, "Yeah baby, who found the book in Barnes and Nobles? All by himself? WHAT." and so my lady can say to all her girlfriends, "My man knows how to find books on his own at Barnes and Nobles. He doesn't need any help." It really is dumb. But in my heart, I'm convinced it somehow honors myself.

Jesus says we honor the Lord when we refuse to do things on our own understanding or strength, but it honors the Lord when we make it his business and glorify him. We can do this by making sure he's in everything we do. Not just little prayers at the beginning of significant activities, but by declarations of dependence ALL throughout the task.

In response, I really had to spend time yesterday, as I have been all week, just surrendering my sermon preparation to the Lord. I do relapse back into trying to honor myself with clever things I can add or say in the message. But in obedience to Christ, I'm trying to be intentional about making His word about Him and what He has to say.


"Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it."- Jesus (Luke 11:28)