Connecting Church

It’s possible to build a full life and still have everything out of order.In this message from Haggai 1, we look at a moment when God’s people were busy, productive, and moving forward… but something was off. They had delayed what mattered most, given God what was left, and over time, life stopped working the way it should.Sound familiar?This sermon explores three simple but challenging truths:-Don’t delay what matters most-Don’t give God the leftovers-Don’t ignore what life is telling youGod’s people weren’t doing nothing, they were just doing life without putting God first. And when God isn’t first, even good things begin to break down.But this isn’t just a message of correction. It’s an invitation. God calls His people to reorder their lives, not out of guilt, but so they can experience the life He designed them for.If you’ve ever felt busy but empty, productive but frustrated, or like something just isn’t working—this message is for you. You don’t need a brand new life… you may just need to put things back in the right order.www.myconnectingchurch.org

We all fail. That’s not the surprising part. The real question is—what do you do next?In John 21, we see one of the most powerful moments in the life of Peter. After failing Jesus publicly and personally, he comes face to face with Him again. What happens next isn’t rejection… it’s restoration.In this message, we walk through how Jesus meets us in our failure, restores what’s broken, and calls us forward into a new future. If you’ve ever felt stuck in regret, weighed down by past mistakes, or unsure how to move forward, this message is for you.In this sermon:Why failure doesn’t have to define your storyHow Jesus restores instead of rejectsWhat it looks like to trust God with your futureWhy comparison keeps you stuckHow to keep growing in your relationship with JesusFailure is common… but moving forward from it is where we get stuck. The good news? Jesus doesn’t just forgive your past—He restores you and calls you forward.www.myconnectingchurch.org

We often look for God in the big moments, but what if He’s meeting us in the ordinary?In John 21, the disciples find themselves in a familiar place—waiting on what’s next, working hard, and coming up empty. And it’s right there, in the middle of everyday life, that Jesus shows up.In this message, we explore:1) How Jesus meets us in our waiting2) Why our efforts feel empty without Him3) The invitation Jesus gives us to come closeIf you’ve been waiting on direction, working without seeing results, or feeling spiritually empty, this message is for you. Jesus doesn’t just meet us in the big moments. He meets us right where we are.Key Takeaway: Jesus meets you in your waiting, your effort, and your emptiness and invites you close.www.myconnectingchurch.org

What happens when you encounter the risen Jesus?In this Easter message from John 20, we explore how the resurrection of Jesus is the greatest “before and after” moment in history. Before the resurrection, there was loss, fear, and doubt. After the resurrection, everything changed.Through the stories of Mary, the disciples, and Thomas, we see how Jesus meets us right where we are. He cares for us in our grief, brings peace to our fears, meets us in our doubts, and ultimately calls us to believe and find new life in Him.This message isn’t just about what happened on the first Easter. It’s about what happens when you encounter Jesus today.www.myconnectingchurch.org

What was on Jesus’ heart just before the cross?In John 17, we get something incredibly personal—not just what Jesus said to His disciples, but what He prayed to the Father about them…and about us. In this message from our To the End series, we walk through four priorities that mattered most to Jesus: God’s glory, knowing and belonging to Him, living sent in a broken world, and unity for the sake of the mission.If Jesus prayed this for us, then it’s not just something to understand—it’s how we are called to live.This sermon will challenge you to move beyond surface-level faith into a deeper relationship with God, a clearer sense of identity, and a renewed purpose in the world.www.myconnectingchurch.org

We all feel sorrow… but Jesus shows us what to do with it.In this sermon, we walk through John 16 and see that Jesus doesn’t ignore our pain or rush past it. He meets us in it and gives us real hope.We were reminded:• Hardship is not a surprise• We are not alone. God has given us His Spirit• Sorrow will not last forever• Jesus has already overcome the worldThe cross looked like the end… but it was actually the turning point. And because of Jesus, our sorrow doesn’t have the final word either.If you’re walking through something heavy right now, don’t carry it alone. There is real hope, real peace, and real victory found in Him.So be courageous. Hold on to hope. And let Jesus redefine your sorrow.www.myconnectingchurch.org

What if the reason your faith feels stuck isn’t that you’re not trying hard enough, but that you’re trying to live the Christian life disconnected from the source of life?In this message from John 15, Jesus uses the picture of the vine and branches to show that spiritual growth doesn’t come from more effort but from staying connected to Him. When we remain close to Jesus, His life begins to shape our relationships, transform our hearts, and produce fruit that lasts.In this sermon we explore three movements Jesus describes for the Christian life: 1) Staying connected to Him2) Living in His love3) Producing fruit that impacts othersIf you’ve ever felt like you’re running hard spiritually but not moving forward, this passage reminds us where real life and lasting fruit are found.www.myconnectingchurch.org

Life brings moments when our hearts feel troubled. Anxiety about the future, uncertainty in our circumstances, and the weight of what we cannot control can leave us searching for comfort. In John 14, Jesus speaks directly into that kind of moment. As His disciples face fear and uncertainty about what lies ahead, Jesus gives them powerful reasons to trust Him. In this message, we explore four ways Jesus brings real comfort to troubled hearts: 1) Jesus prepares a secure future for us2) Jesus reveals what God is truly like3) Jesus gives us a mission to live for4) Jesus offers a peace the world cannot giveJesus' words reminds us that true comfort is not found in control or circumstances but in trusting Jesus.  If you are facing worry, uncertainty, or searching for lasting peace, this message points to the hope and comfort that only Christ can provide.www.myconnectingchurch.org

What kind of love stays when it is hard… when people hurt you… when you fall short?In John 13, we step into the final hours before the cross and witness Jesus loving His disciples with a depth that is honest, sacrificial, visible, and full of grace. This is not convenient love or conditional love. It is a love that endures to the end.In this message, we explore how Jesus calls His followers to:• Love when it is hard• Love as He has loved us• Love in a way the world can see• Love even when we failIf you have ever struggled with forgiveness, disappointment, or feeling like you do not measure up, this message will remind you that the gospel is good news for imperfect people.www.myconnectingchurch.org

On the night before the cross, Jesus did something shocking — He took the place of the lowest servant and washed His disciples’ feet. In John 13:1–17, we encounter a Savior who does not demand to be served but chooses to serve, even those who would betray Him. This message explores how recognizing Christ’s humility, receiving His grace, and reflecting His example can transform our hearts and reshape how we live with others.True greatness in God’s kingdom is not found in status or power, but in humble love that stoops low for the sake of others. When we allow Jesus to serve us first, He empowers us to carry that same servant-hearted love into our homes, workplaces, and communities.If you’ve ever struggled with pride, independence, or the fear of being overlooked, this message offers a powerful picture of the freedom found in a Savior who serves — and calls us to do the same.www.myconnectingchurch.org

What do you do when God closes a door that seemed right?In Acts 16:6–10, Paul and his team are faithfully on mission when God unexpectedly says no—not once, but twice. The doors they planned to walk through were good, logical, and even godly. Yet God closed them in order to guide them somewhere better.In this message, When God Closes Doors, we explore how God uses closed doors to shape our trust, guide His will, and prepare us to respond faithfully when He opens the right one. We’ll look at how to discern the difference between a season that is simply hard and a door God is intentionally closing, why waiting seasons are often formation seasons, and how obedience flows from trust.This sermon is especially for anyone walking through disappointment, uncertainty, or delay—and wondering what God is doing in the middle of it.Key themes include:Why God sometimes closes doors that seem goodHow God guides His will through closed doorsHow to trust God in the waiting and act boldly when clarity comesWhy closed doors are often preparation, not punishmentWhether you’re exploring faith, navigating a difficult season, or seeking God’s direction for what’s next, this message points us to Jesus—the One who trusted the Father through the ultimate closed door so we could experience the greatest open door of all.www.myconnectingchurch.org

What gives us confidence when the future feels uncertain?In this message from Psalm 27, we explore how real courage is built not by clear circumstances but by trusting the Lord.As a winter storm approaches, this sermon reminds us that God is our light, our salvation, and our stronghold. We look at four simple but powerful ways God forms courage for what’s next: trusting Him, desiring His presence, seeking Him above every other voice, and waiting with courage.Whether you’re facing anxiety, change, or uncertainty, this message points us to a steady confidence rooted in who God is and His faithful presence with us.www.myconnectingchurch.org

What do you do when God calls you to move forward but you cannot yet see how it will work? In Joshua 3, God’s people stand at the edge of the Jordan River, facing fear, uncertainty, and the unknown. This message explores what bold faith really looks like. Not rushing ahead, but listening to God. Not chasing our own agenda, but following His lead. Not seeking comfort, but aiming everything for His glory.We learned.....1) Bold faith starts from a place of listening2) Bold faith let's God take the lead3) Bold faith gives all glory to God4) Bold faith steps forward without all the answers As Israel steps into the flooded river, God moves in power and makes a way where none seemed possible. This sermon will encourage you to trust God with the next step, even when the outcome is unclear, and to believe that God is already at work upstream. If you are navigating change, decisions, or a season that requires courage and obedience, this message is for you.www.myconnectingchurch.org

Most of us believe in prayer, but many of us do not actually use it. We know we have access to God, yet we often live like we are on our own. In this message from Luke 11, Jesus teaches that prayer is not a last resort or a spiritual formality. It is bold, persistent, and deeply relational.This sermon explores what it means to stop building life on our own strength and start living with real dependence on God. Jesus invites us to pray with honesty, persistence, and confidence in a Father who cares.In this message you will discover:• Why God invites bold, shameless dependence• Why persistent asking is an act of trust, not doubt• Why God’s fatherly love shapes every answer to prayerIf you are facing uncertainty, stress, or a season where you need God to move, this message will encourage you to stop saving prayer for later and start using the access you have right now.www.myconnectingchurch.org

Ready for Next | We Need Wisdom📖 Proverbs 1:20–33 (CSB)As we step into a new year filled with unknowns, opportunities, and decisions, one question rises to the surface: How do we live wisely when we don’t know what’s next?In this message, we begin a new series called Ready for Next by looking at what the Bible says about wisdom in Proverbs 1. Scripture shows us that wisdom is not hidden or reserved for a few. Wisdom is calling out loudly in everyday life. The real challenge is not access to wisdom, but our willingness to listen and respond.This sermon explores:What biblical wisdom really is (and what it isn’t)Why ignoring wisdom often leads to self-inflicted consequencesHow wisdom helps us see life through a bigger pictureWhy listening to God leads to peace, stability, and securityWhether you’re facing big decisions, navigating uncertainty, or simply wanting to start the year grounded in faith, this message invites you to slow down, listen, and trust God’s guidance for what’s ahead.Join us as we learn how to get ready for next—by growing in wisdom today.www.myconnectingchurch.org

What if real contentment has nothing to do with what you have, what you get, or what season you are in?In this message from Philippians 4:10–19, we explore what the Bible teaches about true contentment and why it cannot be built on gifts, circumstances, or success. Writing from prison, the apostle Paul shows us that contentment is not self-reliance but Christ-reliance. It is learned over time, strengthened through dependency, and expressed through gratitude.This sermon addresses the pressure of comparison, consumerism, and constantly chasing “the next thing,” especially during the Christmas season. We look closely at the often-misunderstood verse Philippians 4:13 and discover that Jesus’ strength is not about achievement, but endurance. Not about spotlight moments, but daily faithfulness.If you are tired, restless, or struggling to feel satisfied even when life seems full, this message points to a better way. A contentment that holds steady in every situation because it is anchored in Jesus.Key themes include:• What biblical contentment really is• Why contentment must be learned• How dependency on Christ produces strength• Why gratitude unlocks joy• How the gospel gives lasting contentmentWhether you are walking through abundance or need, this message invites you to find your satisfaction in Christ alone.www.myconnectingchurch.org

Every Christmas, we search for hope in lights, traditions, family moments, and the feeling of the season. But what happens when the season is heavy, the joy feels distant, and the darkness feels real. In this message, A Better Hope, we discover that true and lasting hope is not found in a feeling but in a Savior.  From Isaiah 9:2–7, we see how Jesus enters our darkness and brings real hope. Hope begins when Christ steps into our broken world. Hope grows as He delivers us from burdens we cannot break on our own. And hope becomes real when we embrace Him not just as a baby in a manger but as the King of our lives. Whether you feel weary, anxious, discouraged, or simply longing for something more this Christmas season, this message points you to the only source of hope that does not fade.www.myconnectingchurch.org

In today’s sermon, “Staying Confident,” we close our journey through the book of 1 John by exploring how believers can live with a steady, unshakable confidence in Jesus. Confidence rises and falls quickly in life — like a chess game gone wrong — but John shows us how to keep our spiritual confidence strong no matter what comes our way.We look at three key truths from 1 John 5:18–21:1. Trust Jesus to protect youWe still battle sin, but we don’t have to stay in it. Jesus guards us, strengthens us, and keeps us from being destroyed by the enemy. God is actively working to protect your soul.2. Embrace the understanding God givesConfidence grows when we see clearly. Jesus opens our eyes to truth, guides us through confusion, and helps us understand who God really is. When you see clearly, you live confidently.3. Guard yourself from a divided heartIdols promise confidence but always steal it. John calls us to guard our hearts from anything that competes with God. A guarded heart becomes a confident heart.As we finish the book of 1 John, we’re reminded that real confidence doesn’t come from us. It comes from the One who saves us, reveals truth to us, protects us, and keeps us. Confidence rooted in Jesus cannot be shaken.Watch now and be encouraged to walk in the confidence that only Christ can give.www.myconnectingchurch.org

In this sermon, Pastor Phil continues our “Living Certain” series through the book of 1 John by unpacking what spiritual confidence looks like in the everyday life of a believer. Confidence is easy to spot in sports, business, and personality, but what does confidence look like in your soul? John gives us clear marks of what confidence looks like and one of those is how you pray. You’ll learn how confident Christians pray big prayers, aligned with God’s will, and intercede for those who are wandering. Instead of living with spiritual insecurity or fear, God invites us into a bold, joy filled, steady confidence that flows from knowing Jesus and trusting His plan.If you need encouragement today, if your prayer life feels small, or if you’re wrestling with fear, doubt, or spiritual drift, this message will help you rediscover the confidence that comes from being a child of God.www.myconnectingchurch.org

Belief is everywhere in our culture. “Believe in yourself.” “Trust the process.” “Send good vibes.” But in 1 John 5:1-13 John shows us that belief only has real power when it is anchored in the right Person, Jesus Christ. From this passage we see four key results of belief:1) True belief empowers us to love and obey2) Gives power for spiritual victory3) Provides assurance in God's truth 4) Leads to eternal life. John wrote these things so we could live certain even in a shaky world,  confident in who Jesus is and confident in who we are because of Him.This message will call you deeper into a faith that is known, lived, and experienced. If you’re exploring faith, you’ll hear a clear invitation to trust the One who offers life, freedom, and hope.www.myconnectingchurch.org

What does real love look like? In this message from 1 John 4, we explore how love is not just something we do—it’s who we become when we abide in God. John reminds us that love identifies the believer, sustains us in daily life, and drives out fear.In this sermon, we unpack:Identification in Love — how our love for others reveals that we truly know God.Abiding in Love — how God’s Spirit perfects His love in us as we walk with Him.Love that Casts Out Fear — how perfect love brings confidence and peace before God.This message reminds us that we don’t start love—God does. When we receive His love through Jesus, we are freed to love one another and the world with that same self-giving grace.If you’ve ever wondered what makes Christian love different, or how to live it out in a fearful and divided world, this message will help you see that God’s love is not just an idea—it’s an identity.www.myconnectingchurch.org

In a world full of scams, half-truths, and spiritual confusion, how can we know what’s real? In this video of our Living Confident series, Pastor Phil teaches from 1 John 4:1–6 about developing spiritual discernment learning to test what we hear and believe according to God’s truth. Just like we’ve learned to spot fake emails or online scams, we need to recognize false ideas about God that sound right but pull us away from Jesus. John reminds us that the Spirit of God helps us test truth from error and keeps the spotlight on Christ.We learned...1) Don’t believe everything you hear.2) Measure every message by Jesus.3) Listen to the Spirit in you.4) Evaluate your truth sources.If you’ve ever felt confused by all the voices claiming to speak for God, this message will help you find confidence—not in opinions or trends—but in the unchanging truth of Jesus Christ.www.myconnectingchurch.org

Everyone talks about love. We celebrate it on wedding days, post about it on social media, and chase after it in a thousand different ways. But the Bible gives us a deeper, more durable definition of love. It shows us a love that still stands on a random Tuesday when life isn’t picture-perfect. In this message, we look at what real love looks like according to 1 John 3:11-24 Real love rejects jealousy and hateReal love moves from words to tangible actionReal love gives evidence of active faithWe don’t just admire love in Jesus, we are called to live His love in how we treat others. And when we do, our love becomes a living proof that Jesus is alive in us.In 1 John 3:11–24, we learn that real, biblical love is a defining mark of genuine faith in Jesus. John contrasts the destructive jealousy of Cain with the sacrificial love of Christ, showing that love cannot coexist with envy, rivalry, or hate. Instead, real love reflects Jesus — it steps toward the needs of others, even when it costs us something. John also teaches that this kind of love becomes the evidence that we truly belong to God. When our hearts doubt or struggle, our loving actions — empowered by the Spirit — reassure us that we are alive in Christ. If this message encourages you, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe — it helps more people find hope and truth through God’s Word.www.myconnectingchurch.org

What if what feels like victory is actually defeat in disguise? In this week’s message from our Living Certain series, Pastor Phil unpacks 1 John 3:4–10 and shows how sin often slips into our lives looking like a gift but carries destruction inside it. John reminds us that sin isn’t just breaking rules—it’s rebellion against God. But there’s hope: Jesus came to demolish the power of sin and destroy the works of the devil. When we see Him clearly and remain in Him, our lives begin to reflect His righteousness and His love.We learn....1) View sin as rebellion against God 2) Join Jesus on his mission to demolish sin3) Evaluate your progress by how you lovewww.myconnectingchurch.org

Technical Warning: We have some audio problems at a few spots of the sermon.  The sermon starts with some audio issues and at times throughout, but 90% is good and has been edited to the best of our ability.Overview:So many people chase confidence in the wrong places — through control, comparison, or constant achievement — and end up exhausted instead of secure. In this message, Pastor Phil shares how real confidence isn’t something we earn through performance but something we receive through relationship.From 1 John 2:28 – 3:3, we learn three reasons God’s children can live certain and unshaken:1️⃣ Remaining in Christ — Confidence grows as we abide in Christ.2️⃣ Experiencing the Father’s Love — Confidence thrives in the awareness of God’s love.3️⃣ Looking to the Future — Confidence comes from knowing what’s coming next and God's good plan for the future. Discover how abiding in Jesus and resting in your identity as His child brings peace, joy, and lasting assurance.www.myconnectingchurch.org

In a world that constantly pulls at our hearts and bombards us with competing truths, how do we keep our faith steady and alive? In this message from 1 John 2:15–27, Pastor Phil teaches how to protect your heart so you don’t drift from Jesus.We learned three keys to protecting our hearts:1) Guard Your Affections – Don’t love the world or the things that are passing away.2) Stay Alert to Spiritual Deception – Test every voice by what it says about Jesus.3)  Remain in God’s Truth – Hold fast to the gospel and let the Spirit keep you rooted in Christ.This message will help you recognize subtle drift, stay anchored in Christ, and build a resilient faith in a culture of distraction and confusion.www.myconnectingchurch.org

Anyone can buy a World’s Best Boss mug, but being the best boss is proven in how you lead, not what you hold. John says the same about faith. Christianity isn’t just a title; it’s seen in the way we live. In this message from our Living Certain series, Pastor Phil walks through 1 John 2:3–14 to show three clear signs of real faith:Walk in His Word — obedience that flows from knowing God.Love His People — a heart shaped by Christ’s love, not hate or indifference.Move Toward Maturity — growing from new believer to strong and seasoned disciple.If you’ve wondered how to know your faith is real, this message will help you examine your walk without fear and find confidence in the transforming grace of Jesus.www.myconnectingchurch.org

Darkness brings confusion, fear, and brokenness, but God calls us to something better. In 1 John 1:5–2:2, the apostle John reminds us that God Himself is light and that true fellowship with Him means living exposed to His truth, honesty, and grace.In this message from our Living Certain series, Pastor Phil unpacks four actions to help you walk confidently with God even when we fall into moments of sin.1️⃣ Know the character of God.2️⃣ Adjust your life’s direction to align with His light.3️⃣ Confess your sins and experience His faithful forgiveness.4️⃣ Rest in Jesus, your righteous advocate.If you’re longing for clarity, confidence, and a deeper connection with God and His people, this passage offers hope and assurance—not through perfection, but through Jesus’ finished work.www.myconnectingchurch.org

For 17 weeks we’ve journeyed through the book of 1 Samuel, watching Israel long for stability and put their hope in the wrong places. From the chaos of the judges to the leadership of Samuel, from Saul’s rise to his tragic fall, the story has been one long reminder: every false king will fail, but God’s true King will never fall.  In this final message from 1 Samuel 31, we see the cost of following the wrong king and the hope we find in Jesus, the true King who conquered death and reigns forever. We learned....1) Earthly kings will eventually fail you (31:1–5)2) The wrong king can leave a legacy of loss (31:6)3) False kings should point us to the true King (31:7–13)www.myconnectingchurch.org

This week, we continued our series Longing for the Better King with a message from 1 Samuel 28:3–25 titled “Desperation Without Direction.”In one of the darkest chapters of Saul’s life, fear drove him to the wrong voices, sin led him to counterfeit answers, and God’s Word stood firm in judgment. Saul’s desperation shows us the danger of acting without God — but it also points us to the hope we have in Jesus, the true King who satisfies where every counterfeit fails.Key Takeaways:1) Fear magnifies our problems and minimizes God’s power.2) Compromise always settles for less than God’s best.3) God’s Word stands whether we stand with it or not.Jesus is the only real voice, the true way, and the Savior who never fails.This was also our 5th Sunday Family Service, where kids, students, and adults worshiped together, and we sent teams into our community for Impact projects to bless schools, neighborhoods, and first responders.Discover how to face fear with faith, stop chasing counterfeits, and follow the voice of Jesus in your life.www.myconnectingchurch.org

What do you do when someone hurts you? When you’ve been mistreated, attacked, or falsely accused, the natural pull is to get even. In 1 Samuel 24, David has Saul trapped in a cave with the perfect chance to take revenge. Instead, he chooses mercy.In this message, Pastor Phil unpacks three marks of godly character when we’re wronged:1️⃣ Resist the urge to retaliate2️⃣ Show honor where it can be shown3️⃣ Leave justice in God’s handsThis story points us beyond David to Jesus—the true King—who when falsely accused and nailed to a cross, entrusted justice to His Father. The empty tomb proves that mercy triumphs and justice belongs to God.If you’ve been carrying hurt, bitterness, or the need to get even, this message will show you how Jesus offers a better way.www.myconnectingchurch.org

What makes a true friend? In this message, Pastor Phil walks through the powerful story of David and Jonathan’s friendship—a friendship marked by honesty, commitment, sacrifice, and trust in God.We’ll see:Why real friends give space for honestyHow faithful friends choose commitment over comfortThe courage it takes to stand together when it costs somethingThe beauty of grieving and rejoicing with one anotherAnd how trusting God shapes every friendshipJonathan and David’s friendship points us to the greater Friend we all need—Jesus. He is honest with us about our sin, committed to us in covenant love, willing to bear the cost, entering into our sorrow, and securing our future. Because of His friendship, we can become the kind of faithful friends the world desperately needs.www.myconnectingchurch.org

Jealousy doesn’t just make you bitter — it blinds you to God’s blessings.In 1 Samuel 18, Saul watches David’s success with suspicion instead of joy, and it begins to unravel his life. But there’s a better way.In this message, Pastor Phil unpacks three signs jealousy is stealing your joy — and shows how Jesus, the greater King, frees us to celebrate others, rest in God’s plan, and lean into His purposes for our lives. In this sermon, you’ll discover:-Why we compete instead of celebrate — and how Jesus shares His victory-How fear replaces trust — and how Jesus perfectly trusted the Father-Why jealousy pushes people away — and how Jesus draws near to us in loveWhether you’re wrestling with comparison, struggling with insecurity, or feeling distant from God, this message will point you to the only King who gives you lasting peace and joy.Join us every Sunday at 9:30 AM at Edgewood Baptist Church Buildingwww.myconnectingbelair.orgwww.myconnectingchurch.org

We all face giants—fear, insecurity, grief, addiction—but what if the battle doesn’t depend on your strength?In this message from 1 Samuel 17, TJ walks us through the story of David and Goliath, not as a motivational tale of self-empowerment, but as a powerful reminder that God fights for His people. David didn’t defeat Goliath by size, strength, or skill—but by faith in a faithful God.We learned...1) Fear grows when we forget who fights for us2) Faith sees the battle through God’s power3) God saves through a faithful champion4) Jesus is our greater Champion who secures the ultimate victoryWhether you’re facing an impossible challenge or feeling forgotten in the background, this message will remind you: you’re not alone in the fight—and the victory belongs to the Lord.www.myconnectingchurch.org

Week 11 – The King After God’s Heart | 1 Samuel 16 | Connecting ChurchNot everything that looks impressive is real.Have you seen the show Is It Cake? Bakers create hyper-realistic cakes that look like everyday objects. But there’s only one way to tell what’s real—you have to cut into it. That visual opens the door to 1 Samuel 16, where God makes it clear: He doesn’t choose leaders based on appearances—He looks at the heart.In this message, Pastor Phil walks us through the moment David is chosen as Israel’s next king. It's not because of his resume, height, strength, or experience. It’s because of his heart. This sermon will challenge the way you view influence, leadership, and even yourself.In this message, you’ll discover:Why God looks beyond what impresses peopleHow He uses the overlooked and unlikelyWhat it means to be empowered by the Spirit for God's purposeWhether you feel forgotten, unqualified, or just stuck in waiting—this sermon will encourage you to trust that God sees more in you than the world does.Let’s stop living for image and start living with integrity.www.myconnectingchurch.org

What happens when we rush ahead of God? In 1 Samuel 13, we find King Saul under pressure—afraid, impatient, and driven to disobedience. His fear caused him to forget God's promises. His impatience led him to take matters into his own hands. And ultimately, his disobedience cost him the future God intended.This message explores how fear, impatience, and self-reliance can drive us outside of God’s best—but it also reminds us of the hope found in Jesus, the true and better King who obeyed perfectly on our behalf.Key Takeaways:-Fear grows when we forget God's promises-Impatience pushes us outside of God's timing-Disobedience robs us of God's best-Obedience flows not from pressure but from God’s love through ChristLet’s learn to wait well, trust deeply, and follow Jesus fully.Where have you struggled with rushing God’s timing? What helps you wait in faith?www.myconnectingchurch.org

Life is full of seasons—some sweet, some difficult, but none of them last forever. Even good leaders and good seasons eventually come to an end. In 1 Samuel 12, we see Samuel’s farewell and learn what it looks like to walk faithfully with God through life’s changes.In this message, we explore:- Why even good seasons don’t last forever- How to see God’s steady grace in every season- The danger of false security- How to lean into obedience and trust no matter what changesBig Idea: Seasons change, but God and His mission remain the same.Whether you’re stepping into something new or saying goodbye to something good, there’s a better King we can trust—Jesus, who never fades, never leaves, and never changes.www.myconnectingchurch.org

What happens when we’re drawn to the people who look the part but don't have the heart for God? This week, we explore the story of Saul’s rise as Israel’s first king—a man who seemed impressive on the outside and humble at first but ultimately missed what mattered most. In this message, we’ll discover:-God looks past the hype and sees the heart.-God confirms His call through everyday, sovereign moments.-God’s call is sustained by lasting humility. Saul had the image, but not the heart. Jesus, our true King, not only looked past the part but lived it fully with humility, faithfulness, and sacrificial love. Key Takeaways:  -God’s calling isn’t about looking the part—it’s about having the heart.-What feels random in your life might be God’s roadmap.-You can’t carry God’s call if you’re full of yourself.  Let this story challenge you to pursue integrity over image and to trust that God is working in the details of your life—even when it doesn’t feel big or impressive. Join us in person at Abingdon Elementary, Sundays at 10 AMwww.myconnectingchurch.org

We’ve all been there—buying into something that promised to solve our problems but left us more frustrated than before. In this week’s message, we dive into 1 Samuel 8, where the people of Israel demand a human king to fix what only God can truly heal. This sermon walks through four key truths:1) Brokenness can stir the right desires—but lead us to wrong solutions.2) Wanting to fit in makes us forget what sets us apart.3) False kings offer quick fixes that cost us deeply.4) Sometimes God gives us what we want to show us what we need.We were challenged to examine our hearts:Where are you looking for quick fixes?Have you started chasing “lesser kings”?What might it look like to trust Jesus again as your true King? Join us each Sunday at 10:00am at Abingdon Elementary School (399 Singer Road) www.myconnectingchurch.org

Is it possible to come back from spiritual dryness, distance, or defeat?In this message, Pastor Phil walks through 1 Samuel 7 and explores how God brings true spiritual renewal—not just a momentary emotional high, but lasting transformation. After 20 years of hardship and defeat, Israel begins to long for the Lord again… and what follows is a powerful picture of how revival takes root in a person, a church, or a community.This sermon will challenge you to:-Long for God in a way that leads to real change-Rely on God's power, not just your own strategies-Mark your renewal so it lastsIf you’ve been feeling spiritually stuck, dry, or distant from God—this message is for you.www.myconnectingchurch.org

Sermon Title: When God's Not In ItScripture: 1 Samuel 4Series: Longing for the Better KingWhat if we’re holding onto the things of religion but missing the person of God entirely? In this sermon from our series Longing for the Better King through 1 Samuel, Pastor Phil unpacks a sobering moment in Israel’s history where the people brought the Ark of the Covenant into battle—hoping for it would help them without actually seeking God himself. The result? Defeat, loss, and spiritual wake-up calls.We explore three key questions:-Do we want God's help without wanting God Himself?-Have we replaced real faith with religious things?-Do we grieve our losses but not God’s absence? This sermon challenges us to look at our own lives and ask: Am I chasing God’s blessings, or God Himself?Join us at 10:00am each Sunday at Abingdon Elementary School (399 Singer Road)www.myconnectingchurch.org

Sermon Title: Hearing God's CallScripture: 1 Samuel 3:1-21Series: Longing for the Better KingIn this message, we look at a moment when God breaks through the silence and speaks to a young boy named Samuel. In a spiritually dark time, God’s voice returns—and everything begins to shift.Join us as we explore three key responses when it comes to hearing from God:Recognize the danger of spiritual silencePosition your heart to listenCarry God’s Word with courage and faithfulnessWhether you're struggling to hear God's voice or unsure what it means to listen, this message will encourage you to lean in, open the Scriptures, and respond with a willing heart.www.myconnectingchurch.org

What happens when spiritual leaders stop honoring God and start serving themselves? Pastor Phil walked through one of the heaviest and most sobering chapters in 1 Samuel—where Eli’s sons, appointed as priests, abuse their power, dishonor God’s name, and hurt the very people they were called to serve.Passage: 1 Samuel 2:12–36Series: Longing for the Better KingIn this message, we learned.....-The warning signs of spiritual leadership failure-The deep damage caused when reverence for God is lost-How abuse of power and rejection of correction are spiritual dangers-And most importantly—why Jesus is the faithful and better priest who never failsIf you’ve experienced church hurt or spiritual betrayal, this message is for you. God is not done working. He sees every injustice and still raises up faithfulness in the most unexpected places.Failed leadership hurts—but God’s purposes never fail. Jesus is the leader we’ve been longing for.Join us each Sunday, 10:00am at Abingdon Elementary School (399 Singer Road)www.myconnectingchurch.org

Pastor Phil started off a new series, Longing for the Better King, by stepping into the powerful and emotional story of Hannah in 1 Samuel 1–2.Before Israel ever had a king, there was a woman with a prayer. Hannah's deep longing, heartfelt surrender, and bold worship opened the door to a greater move of God than she ever imagined. In her story, we see that God meets us in our most personal pain and uses it to fulfill His bigger purposes.We learned....• God sees the pain no one else understands• God brings healing through our honest prayers• God can be trusted with what we treasure most• God turns our story into something greaterScripture: 1 Samuel 1:1–2:11Series: Longing for the Better King | Week 1Join us each Sunday at 10:00am at Abingdon Elementary School (399 Singer Road)www.myconnectingchurch.org

In this message, we walk through Romans 15:1–13 and discover how the gospel reshapes how we live in Christian community. From bearing with one another to building each other up, Paul calls the church to pursue unity, serve selflessly, and overflow with hope through the power of the Holy Spirit. Whether you're feeling weak, disconnected, or in need of encouragement, this passage reminds us that our hope is secure in Christ—and that we’re called to walk this road together.www.myconnectingchurch.org

In this sermon from 2 Corinthians 5:17-21, Pastor Phil reminds us that connecting isn’t just a church name—it’s God's calling for every one of us. Disconnected from God, we’re like an unplugged extension cord—built for something greater but missing life and power. But through Jesus, we find new life, peace with God, and a mission to help others reconnect too.Are you connected to Jesus? Are you living out your mission as an ambassador for Him? Join us as we celebrate all that God has done and look forward to all He’s still doing.www.myconnectingchurch.org

Is your walk with Jesus feeling more like a solo flight than a shared journey? In this powerful message from our Follow Me series, Pastor Phil explores how Acts 2:42–47 gives us a blueprint for discipleship in community—not in isolation. From this passage we learn that growth happen when we grow, worship, pray, and serve together.Learn how the early church practiced shared learning, witnessed God’s power in real-time, lived generously, worshiped with devotion, and saw the Kingdom multiply—not through individual effort, but through Christ-centered community.Discipleship is a team sport.Let’s learn what it means to go further and grow deeper together.Topics Covered:-Why community is essential for spiritual growth-The power of shared worship and generosity-How unity leads to gospel impact-What it looks like to be devoted to Jesus and His peopleHow has walking with others helped you follow Jesus more closely?Subscribe to stay connected and explore more content that helps you follow Jesus in real life.www.myconnectingchurch.org

Do I expect the unexpected? That’s the question we’re unpacking in today’s message at Connecting Church. Life is full of twists, turns, and surprises—and so often, God shows up right in the middle of them.Whether you’re a planner who wants everything just right or someone who thrives on spontaneity, there’s one truth we all need to hold onto: God shows up in the unexpected. In today’s teaching, guest speaker Virgil shares his personal journey of unexpected transitions, how God met him in the middle of uncertainty, and how the story of Jesus' birth in Luke 2 is the ultimate reminder that our God doesn’t always show up the way we’d expect—but He always shows up.In this message, we discover that:God shows up in times we don’t expect.God shows up in places we don’t expect.God shows up with people we don’t expect.And God shows up in ways we don’t expect. As we move into the Easter season, this message reminds us to open our hearts and lives to the ways God might be working behind the scenes—even in life’s most surprising moments.Whether you're a longtime follower of Jesus, new to faith, or just exploring, this message will encourage you to trust that God is present, faithful, and always at work—even when it’s unexpected.Let this be a reminder today: When God is moving, expect the unexpected.www.myconnectingchurch.org

Are You Building a Better You—or Building Others? There can be a pull to a type of faith that looks polished and disciplined and spiritual…but it is lonely and forgets our call to help others. In this sermon, we explore what happens when we trade a self-focused spiritual life for the mission of Jesus to make more disciples. Using the Great Commission in Matthew 28:18–20, we unpack what it really means to make disciples—not just become one. You’ll hear a powerful challenge: discipleship isn’t about spiritual self-improvement; it’s about going with gospel intentionality. From understanding why baptism and teaching matter, to living in the continual presence of Jesus, this message offers both inspiration and practical steps to help you join Jesus in His mission. If you’ve ever wondered what your next step in faith should be—or how to move from passive belief to active discipleship—this conversation will help you find clarity, courage, and direction.www.myconnectingchurch.org

What does real transformation look like in the life of a disciple?In this message from Romans 12:1–2, we explore how God shapes us—not just in dramatic moments, but through daily surrender, true worship, and a renewed mind. While we often want instant change, the transformation Jesus offers is deeper and more lasting, forming us into people who can live out His will in everyday life. Faithfulness in the small things—like how we worship, the choices we make, and how we think—is the soil where transformation takes root.Whether you're new to faith or walking with Jesus for years, this message is a reminder: God's not just trying to improve you—He's transforming you from the inside out. Don't settle for a low-bar version of worship. Lean into the full life of a disciple.We learned....1. Transformation starts with our surrender2. Transformation is a choice of worship3. Transformation leads to renewed minds4. Transformation brings understanding of God's willWe are a church in Abingdon, Maryland that has church gatherings every Sunday at 10:00AM at Abingdon Elementary School (399 Singer Road). www.connectingbelair.orgwww.myconnectingchurch.org