Oak Hill Church of Christ 3-2-25 Message, "Go Ahead, Unpack Your Bags"

Oak Hill Church of Christ preaching minister, Randy Sterling, delivers a message on the importance of trusting God to keep his promise, and living accordingly.

Have you ever wondered why, no matter how comfortable the bed is at your hotel, you can never sleep well the first night? Have you ever watched a cat learn to live in a new home?

There's a deep-seated psychological mechanism built into humans and animals alike that warns us 'you're in a new place, don't relax; be on your guard.'

Over time, that feeling is diminished as we learn to understand our surroundings and become convinced that we're safe. We understand the risks. We know the potential dangers. We know when it's okay to relax.

Would you be surprised to think that following Christ is any different? You read the Bible, you understand your place as a sinner, you believe in Christ as your redeemer and want the gift of eternal life that comes from his sacrifice on the Cross. You're baptized, you pray, you become part of the family of God. But, now what?

There could be all new dangers present in your life as a Christian after all. What if your sinful past is discovered by church members? What if You sin too much, no matter how hard you try? Will God kick you out? What if bad things happen to you even after you're baptized? Does that mean God abandoned you?

There's a lot about starting a fresh life that can come with worry and unsettling thoughts. God, however, tells His children to leave those worries behind along with all the other baggage of our former lives. When God makes a promise, He keeps it. When He says He'll save us, He means it. When He sent His Son Jesus to show us the Way, He didn't include bad directions.

If you're worried about settling down in your new place as a child of God, take a look at Romans 8 and let the calm certainty of God's love wash over you. Let God's house become a familiar place where you feel safe. Relax.