illustrations
Enhance your next sermon.
Re-Centering the GPS
Updated:Use when calling for prayer or sabbath. Clarity and guidance come in stillness—be with God so He can re-center you, then move with confidence into the purposes He has for you.
When the Boat Engine Finally Went Quiet
Updated:Use when calling people from frantic activity into God’s presence. Emphasizes intimacy over productivity—be with God before you do for God. Great for a worship transition or at the close of a message on abiding.
The Review with a Full Report and an Empty Chair
Updated:Use with volunteers or leaders to stress “ministry to the Lord” before ministry for the Lord. Relationship precedes results—schedule the meeting with God, not just the tasks for God.
Tuning Before the Music
Updated:Use to frame a time of worship or daily devotion challenge. Emphasizes “first ministry to the Lord”—alignment before assignment; presence before performance.
The Parent Who Just Wanted the Couch
Updated:Use in an identity/sonship moment. God doesn’t just want your spiritual trophies; He wants you. Invite people to bring their busy hearts to the Couch—prayer, worship, unhurried presence—before bringing their list.
Left My Notes, Found the Message
Updated:Use to invite leaders out of perfectionism. Emphasize: God prefers our obedience and honesty; when resources are missing, He can still work through a yielded heart.
Burnt Lasagna Became the Favorite Soup
Updated:Use to encourage flexibility and grace in leadership. Emphasize: God can repurpose our mistakes; bring Him what’s left, and He can make it feed people.
The Broken Vase That Became a Frame
Updated:Use when preaching on forgiveness and restoration. Emphasize: God doesn’t discard broken people; He crafts something new with the very pieces we thought ruined the story.
When the Lights Went Out, Worship Broke Out
Updated:Use to reset a performance-driven room. Emphasize dependence on God over production: He doesn’t need much—He can use almost nothing—when hearts are yielded.
The Baby Who Sleeps on a Chest
Updated:Use to teach that rest is relational, not locational. Ideal near an altar call or ministry moment: invite people to seek Jesus’ presence over chasing the next trip, tool, or tactic for relief.