If we say we believe God is sovereign, but spend our days wringing our hands and fretting, we're just doing lip-service to theology.

If we say we believe God is love, but spend our days berating ourselves and others, we're just doing lip-service to theology.

If we say we believe God is faithful, but try to control outcomes and people, we're just doing lip-service to theology.

If we say we believe God is generous, but worry about being cared for and financial stability, we're just doing lip-service to theology.

If we say we believe God is just, but manipulate situations to get justice ourselves, we're just doing lip-service to theology.

If we say we believe God is good, but treat every day as if we're waiting for something better, we're just doing lip-service to theology.

If we say we believe God is wise, but ignore the wisdom He gave us in His word, we're just doing lip-service to theology. 

If we say we believe God is holy, but try to step as close to the lines of sin without sinning as possible, we're just doing lip-service to theology.

If we say we believe God is a comforter, but run around trying to clean up messes and keep a shred of peace, we're just doing lip-service to theology.

If we say we believe God is full of grace, but demand more of ourselves and others than God would, we're just doing lip-service to theology.

When I fret about life, time, finances, relationships, I'm tempted to control them for my preferred outcome. When I rest in the giver of good and perfect gifts, I see every allowance as unmerited favor and can walk in the confidence as one who is held by the God of the universe—the perfection of every attribute. 

Receive a Free eBook by Charles Spurgeon!

To celebrate Pastor Appreciation Month this October, we’re giving away a free eBook from Charles Spurgeon! This work from Spurgeon is meant to encourage pastors and ministry leaders to endure in their ministry for the glory of God and the good of the Church. We pray it encourages you and your church this month.

Additionally, Midwestern Seminary is releasing new content and giveaways across social media, including a $10,000 Pastor Appreciation Package to be awarded to one pastor who is entered! Enter your pastor to win and find out more about how we’re celebrating Pastor Appreciation Month by clicking the button below.