Rolling Hills Community Church // Nashville South Campus

Advent is the waiting - the preparing our hearts for Jesus. We celebrate the first coming of Jesus at Christmas, and we prepare our hearts for His Second Coming. The entire Old Testament was pointing God’s people to our Blessed Hope, Jesus. Jesus came to bring salvation to both the Jews and the Gentiles - to all who are far off from God. There are more prophecies about Jesus’ Second Coming than even His first coming. Our hope is in Jesus today. When Jesus returns He will make all things right. But, until then, we wait in expectation and hope. Come, Lord Jesus!

God wants us to experience Generous Living. The most famous verse in the Bible says, “For God so loved the world that He gave…” John 3:16. Therefore, we are most like God when we love and when we give. The first key to Generous Living is to rejoice always. This is a true mark of spiritual depth and maturity. Jesus was full of joy and there will be rejoicing in Heaven. When we are grateful, we rejoice. Let’s learn to rejoice always as we grow to be like Jesus.

God longs to bring Revival in His Church today. We are on the precipice of Great Spiritual Awakening in our nation. And, these Spiritual Awakenings have always started with Revival in God’s Church. Revivals occur when God’s people become fully devoted to His heart and mission. So often, we drift from the things of God and find ourselves devoted to the things of this world. Yet, God is constantly drawing us back to Himself. When the people of God become fully devoted to Him get ready, Revival will come. And, Revival will impact our lives, but also our nation and world. Come, Jesus, Come. Revival starts here.

The Book of James is so practical in how we live out our faith in Jesus. In James 5, he points out that our faith is seen in how we use our money, our suffering, and our prayers. As Christ-followers, these three areas should look different from the world - how we invest our money, how we are patient in our sufferings, and how we pray. May we be people who grow deeper and stronger in our faith. Let’s mature in our love and faith in Jesus.

So why should we be faithful to God? Why choose friendship with Him over the world? Because God chose to enter into a relationship with us, fully knowing we would betray Him. Even after all the times we’ve walked away, made mistakes or said things we regret, God remains faithful.God chose to send His Son, Jesus, to redeem what was already His. We were created in His image, but sin had taken us away. So, what did God do? He bought us back from sin and slavery with the blood of His Son. Jesus paid the price for our redemption. And, when you understand all that God has done for you through Christ, the pull of the world loses its appeal.

We have all been impacted by words. Words are powerful. James talks about the impact of words on our lives and others. We all carry hope and wounds from words said to us by a parent, coach, teacher or friend. And, at the same time, we too have the power to build up and destroy others with our words. James calls to us to live out our faith with our words. How we use our words - what we say, post, write and more - matters. As a disciple of Jesus, do our words reflect Christ? Have you declared Jesus with your mouth, and have you professed Him with your life?

Salvation only comes through faith in Jesus. It is Jesus who saves a person. It is not about what we do, it is about what He has done. Jesus died on the cross for our sins and then conquered death so we can have eternity with God. However, James will say that “faith without works is dead.” While works do not save us, our good works for Jesus are the evidence of our faith. Can people look at your life and see your faith in Jesus? Behavior always follows belief. Are we living out our faith in Jesus? Let’s renew our commitment to Jesus today and live every day for Him.

Favoritism has always been a problem for God’s people. Even in the Old Testament, there was dysfunction in families because of prejudice and favoritism. Favoritism is still a problem for Christians today. However, James calls believers in Jesus not to show favoritism but to live by a higher standard - love. How can we love others this week? Let’s start at home with our spouse, children, and/or roommates, and then love the people in our church, school, and work. Let’s show mercy and not judge. Let’s love others like God loves us. Spiritual maturity is measured in love.

There are many people who have heard about Jesus. There are many people who have a Bible in their home. But, there are few people who actually live out their faith in Jesus. James tells us to “be doers of the Word and not hearers only.” We are called to live out our faith. Works do not save us, only Jesus saves us, “through faith,” but works are evidence of a transformed life in Jesus. If someone listens to what you say and watches how you live, will they see your faith in Jesus? Let’s not just listen to God’s Word today, but let’s live it out every day.

The Christian life is all about faith. Salvation comes through faith in Jesus. But salvation is not the end, but the beginning of an incredible faith journey. Every day we have the opportunity to place our faith in Jesus. This is where we see miracles happen and God move mountains. We are called to “live by faith and not by sight.” So, where’s your faith? Is your faith in Jesus or in the things of this world? Place your life fully in Jesus and see the difference God will make in your life, your family, your future, and your eternity. Faith works!

What made David so special was his heart for God. David was an incredible leader that God used to impact His people and history. David wasn’t perfect. He sinned and made some big mistakes in his life. But after his sins, David always repented and came back to God. Even at the end of his life, he was known as “a man after God’s own heart.” Regardless of what you have done, make a commitment today to be a “man or woman after the heart of God.” Put God first in your life and live every day for Him. Then, watch God do miracles in your life. Trust God today.

God calls and conditions us to lead with leadership rooted in spiritual influence. Henry Blackaby describes spiritual leaders as those who guide others toward where God wants them to be, starting with their own relationship with Him. Each generation is given the opportunity to raise new leaders who, like David, defeat new giants through deep faith and trust in God. David's leadership was marked by his faith in God's past faithfulness, humility, servant leadership, and willingness to own up to his mistakes. His faith was contagious, empowering those around him to become leaders and giant killers. The question is: What does this look like for us?

The aftermath of David’s sin was chaos and brokenness. His sins were forgiven, but the consequences remained. This began a generational pattern of the sons of David falling short. Jesus is the son of David, who broke the generational curse and created a new way forward. In our lives, we need to be aware of the dangers of sin and its damage to those around us and those who come after us. Through the power of the cross, we are called to follow that new way forward for ourselves and those in our circles with a life of confession, repentance, forgiveness, and healing.

In 2 Samuel, Nathan uses a parable to confront David indirectly about his sin, avoiding direct accusation due to the danger involved. The parable of the little ewe lamb, symbolizing Bathsheba, triggers David's deep-seated compassion for sheep, drawing parallels to his own past as a shepherd. In the story, David condemns the rich man's actions without realizing he condemns himself. This blinds him to his own wrongdoing, revealing the danger of being unaware of your own sin. We have much to learn from this story of David’s sin, his choice to repent and turn from his sin, and the power of God’s grace and forgiveness. You’re never “too far gone” from God’s grace – and that’s what we can learn from the relationship and story of David and Nathan.

David's story in 2 Samuel 11:1-15 shows how sin can mess things up, even for someone like the greatest king of Israel. So, because we recognize that we can slip up, praying and reading the Bible daily, having friends who keep us accountable, and knowing how to step away from temptation are all essential in our walk with Jesus. When we do make mistakes, though, asking for forgiveness and choosing repentance can bring us back to God. 1 Corinthians 10:13 says God helps us handle temptation when we stick close to Him and our community. We can learn from David's mistakes because we all struggle with sin. Finding our joy in God helps us say no to temptation and grow spiritually. And just as we learn from David’s life, no matter how you have sinned, you are never too far from God.

In the story of David and Mephibosheth, there’s a central theme of this: when we show kindness to others, we're actually showing them who God is. It's not just about being there for people when things are good for us; we've got to remember others' struggles, even when life gets messy for us. At times, this will mean that we must stick to our commitments, no matter what and to allow Christ's love and our obedience to Him to keep us going. The story makes you think: who is it in your life that God wants you to treat with that same covenant love? It's all about building relationships and reflecting God's character through our kindness and actions.

The story of David and Jonathan illustrates a deep, God-centered friendship. It emphasizes rare, enduring friendships rooted in commitment rather than convenience. Their relationship shows fruitful outcomes: celebrating victories, growing spiritually, facing challenges resiliently, and discovering identity through Christ-like growth. It reflects Christ's sacrificial love and lasting companionship. Ultimately, their story points us to the ultimate friendship in Christ — a friendship that satisfies our deepest longings eternally.

The story of David and Saul dives into human desires and flaws. The elders' cry for a change brings Saul to power, but his inner battles and David's tunes show how messy relationships and power can be when God is not on the throne of the leader's life. Saul's jealousy and grudge against David highlight the dangers of ambition, while sneaky adversaries remind us of the ultimate fight against evil – God versus Satan. David's relationship with Saul was a difficult one, but ultimately, God's plan and timing were greater throughout his life.

When we face our own "Goliaths," we should remember that it is not our strength but God's power that will see us through. By depending on God and acknowledging His sovereignty, we can overcome fear and face our challenges with confidence, knowing that He fights for us.As we return to our daily lives, let us fix our eyes on Jesus, our ultimate champion who conquered sin and death for us. His victory assures us that we can face our fears and obstacles, not by our own might, but by His strength and love. Our story is determined not by our enemies or fears, but by our King, Jesus Christ.

David is the most famous person in the Bible outside of Jesus. David’s life is like a movie – he goes from being a nobody to becoming king over all of Israel. David defeats a giant, Goliath, and wins basically every battle he fights. Even more, David is a worshiper of God and keeps his love for God all his life. There is so much we can learn from the life of David. He wasn’t perfect, but at the end of his life, he was known as “a man after God’s own heart.” This summer will be an incredible journey, and I pray God will grow each of us deeper in our own walk with God. Your best days are still ahead. Develop, maintain, and mature a beautiful heart for God.

When it comes to greed, we are quick to forget how cunning and sly greed can be. Greed isn’t always overt. Sometimes it is, but other times, much more subtle. We can even camouflage greed and call it a necessity. Every other person has this, so I need it. Every other family goes there, so we need to go there. Every other kid has this, so my child must need this. It doesn’t sound wrong, but it can be an attitude or a comparison the Lord just doesn’t want us to make, and it is most often driven by a need for more. We even think it is right and worth it and what is best. When was the last time you evaluated the return on investment, on the greedy choices you made? What you will find is the ROI is never what you think it will be! Instead of being happier, you are less content. Instead of being pleased with your new gadgets, you want yet another one. Greed always leaves us wanting more! Seek to be content this week. Seek to be a blessing to others. Thank God for all He has lavished on you, and yearn to be an active participant in all He wants to do in and through you in the world.

God calls us to “be holy because I am holy.” Holiness means to be “set apart.” The world wants us to be passive about our faith and to live for ourselves. Yet, Jesus came to “do the will of the Father.” As Christ-followers, we are called to be like Jesus. We should passionately invest in the things of God. But we live in a world that wants us to be complacent and comfortable. Complacency is a challenge for Christians and for the American Church. God calls us to push past culture and to live for Him. We have one opportunity in life, so let’s give our best for God!

We live in a world where it is so easy to complain. We are surrounded by ungratefulness on social media, in the news, and in our culture. Yet, as Christ-followers, we are called to an attitude of gratitude. Because of what Jesus has done for us on the cross, we should be the most joyful and grateful people in the world! So, how are we doing in this area of gratefulness? Do we compliment more than we complain? Do we thank God and those around us on a daily basis? Let’s learn to be grateful people every day of our lives.

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus:Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to His own advantage; rather, He made Himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross! Philippians 2:3-8

We live in a word bombardment. We are inundated with words nonstop, from television to social media to text messages and everyday conversations. There is no scarcity of words, but there is a scarcity of grace-filled words to build people up. As followers of Christ, we are called to a different standard with our speech. Our words have power, and we use them for good or evil. Ephesians 4:29 counsels us to be wise with our words to the glory of God and the good of others.

All of us struggle in some way with worry. Yet, Jesus says, “Therefore do not worry…” Is this even possible in the world we live in today? There is a difference between healthy worry and unhealthy worry. Healthy worry means we are concerned, but unhealthy means we are trying to be in control. Prolonged worry takes God out of our life, and therefore results in sin. So, how should we respond to worry? Focus on Jesus. Be wise and turn what you are facing over to Him. God’s got your situation, and God’s got you. Don’t worry.

As followers of Jesus, we are called to be holy. But, how do we be holy in the world we live in today? Holy means to be “set apart.” We are called to be different from our culture. This is especially difficult in the area of sexual immorality. There are so many temptations and areas where people choose to compromise. We must come back to what God tells us in His Word. God created the world, and God created us – He knows what is best for our life. So, will we live like our culture, or will we be holy?

What is the foundation of your life? We all hear the stories and the words of Jesus, but the difference between the wise and foolish builders, according to Jesus, is on what foundation we build our lives. There are many options out there – money, sports, kids, success – but all of these are shifting sand. The only foundation that can weather the storms of life is the Rock of Jesus. We all hear the words of Jesus, but then we must put them into practice. What difference do the stories and words of Jesus make in your life? Is your life built on the foundation of Christ Jesus?

It’s Easter! Praise God! Easter is the greatest event in history and the event that changed our lives for all eternity. Jesus went to the cross to pay the price for your sins – no matter what you have done. No matter how far you feel from God, your Heavenly Father loves you and has an incredible plan for your life. Today, will you come home? Will you give your heart and life fully to God? Ask for His forgiveness, turn away from your sin, and receive the greatest gift of all – salvation. If you are a Christ-follower, will you follow Jesus not just on Easter, but every day of your life? God loves you. Let’s celebrate God’s grace this Easter, and then live as Easter people every day.

The Parable of the Good Samaritan is one of Jesus’ Greatest Stories. It is so important for us to “go and do likewise.” We are called to love and serve others. This starts with seeing the needs around us – our family, friends, church, work, school, neighborhood, and to the ends of the earth. We can’t do everything, but we can all do something. But, even greater in this story, is realizing that Jesus is the One who rescues us. When we were dead, and lying on the side of the road, Jesus came and paid the price to give us life. Let’s worship Jesus on this Palm Sunday!

In Matthew 25:14-30, Jesus shares a story, often called the Parable of the Talents, about a master who entrusts servants resources to manage while he's away. This parable teaches us about using our gifts and resources wisely for His Kingdom. It shows that God expects us to make the most of what we've been given and to invest our time, talents, and resources in ways that honor Him and benefit others. We are not accountable to our fruitfulness but by our faithfulness to Him.

Jesus’ greatest story today, the Parable of the Wedding Feast, shows us the results of accepting or rejecting God’s gracious and surprising invitation. Through the Gospel, God gives a gracious invitation to everyone, regardless of social or moral standing, to be in His beautifully diverse Kingdom, His Church. Accepting His invitation leads to joy. Rejecting His invitation, through self righteousness or trusting a false gospel, leads to being shut out of His kingdom. All of us who have accepted the invitation have the joyous privilege of inviting everyone into the joy of God’s Kingdom. This Easter season is the perfect moment to invite, invite, invite, as many as you can to worship with you at Rolling Hills.

This Easter season, we will be walking through some of Jesus’ Greatest Stories. Jesus taught in parables so people would discover spiritual truth. Jesus tells the Parable of the Sower to show how people respond to the Gospel - the Good News of Salvation. Every person in the world will respond to Jesus in one of these four ways. Where are you? As you hear Jesus’ teaching, how will you respond? This Easter season, let’s respond to God’s Good News and then share His love with others. I pray each of us will bear spiritual fruit in our life for the glory of our great God.