July sermons 2026
7-19- Roots
Psalms 1:1-6 Matthew 5:1-12
7-26- The Whole Truth
Genesis 15:1-6 John 14:12-14
In the 12th chapter of his letter to the Romans, the Apostle Paul gives all kinds of solid, practical advice about how to live the Christ-like life. He delivers the advice in short, pithy, truth-filled statements like:
“Honor one another above yourselves” (Romans 12:10).
This is one of the most practical lessons you can learn. You'll dignify those around you and improve the quality of your life. You'll earn a good reputation and avoid regrets. Since everyone wants to be honored, all we have to do is honor others above ourselves.
The best way to handle conflict and overcome disagreement is not by force—but by honoring others above ourselves. This is the culture of heaven—and God calls us to bring it to earth. Displaying honor in your home will transform your family. Practicing honor in your workplace will transform your co-workers.
Demonstrating honor in the world will transform the world.
Honoring others above ourselves is nothing less than relational genius. It makes everything and everyone better.
One of the most influential people in my early career as a pastor was Roger Shaffer. He was the senior pastor I worked with when I first graduated from seminary. Roger saw potential in me—but he also saw a great deal of ego and self-centeredness. Like a sculptor who chips away pieces of marble with a hammer and chisel, Roger set about his work of knocking off and smoothly out my rough edges. One way was by loving me enough to repeat important axioms like: “Honor others above and before yourself.” “There is no limit to what God will do if you stop worrying about who gets the credit.” Another way was showing everyone around him honor—even me.
As I look back over my life, I hope I learned that lesson well.
To whom will you show honor today?