Sermon Summary
In our journey of faith, we must confront the reality of our spiritual growth and ask ourselves, "Am I praying or playing?" This question is not merely rhetorical; it demands introspection and honesty. If we find ourselves stagnant, holding onto the same testimony, grudges, or immature prayers year after year, we must acknowledge that we are not truly engaging with God. Our spiritual life requires more than going through the motions; it requires a heart desperate for God, much like Peter when he stepped out onto the water.

Our comfort and security, often symbolized by material wealth such as a healthy 401(k), can lull us into complacency. Yet, we must remember that our true security lies not in numbers but in God's providence. The story of Jesus feeding the multitudes with five loaves and two fish reminds us that God's provision is abundant and that we must be willing to relinquish control and let God work in our lives.

In the church, we coexist with both the converted and the unconverted, the convinced and the convicted. This dichotomy will persist until Christ's return, and we must not expect perfection within the church. Instead, we should focus on the assurance that failure is neither final nor fatal. Peter's experience of walking on water, faltering, and being saved by Jesus illustrates that in the midst of adversity, we are being taught and shaped by God's "university."

We are engaged in spiritual warfare, and surrender is not an option. The enemy seeks to distract us from Jesus, but we must remain steadfast, knowing that Jesus watches over us and limits our temptations to what we can bear. Our trials are common, calculated, and conquerable through the power of Christ's sacrifice and our testimony.

In summary, our spiritual vitality is measured by our willingness to step out in faith, to let go of our need to be right, and to embrace the trials that refine us. We must be vigilant in prayer, seeking understanding and discernment to align our will with God's. Our testimonies are not for ourselves but for the edification of others, and we must boldly proclaim what God has done in our lives.

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