Sunday, October 4, 2026
Sermon Notes: When Your Way Isn't Working - Wk 5 - The Purpose of Pruning!!

Rich Milliken • Lead Minister
September 29, 2026

7 Minute Read
SERMON NOTES FOR SUNDAY, OCT 4, 2026

Prepare your heart for this Sunday’s morning message by reading the below Family Discipleship Plan, Discussion Questions & Action Steps, Sermon Slides & Songs.

Family Study page John 15:2, 18-21 October 4, 2026

When Your Way Isn’t Working – Maybe you’ve found recently that you are getting more irritable with people. Or you’re feeling more overwhelmed and defeated by the challenges that life is throwing your way. Or you’re spending more time scanning social media than you are connecting with God in prayer. Suddenly aware that doing things your way isn’t working out the way you thought it would. If you are putting additional effort to make your life better, trying to find a full connection with your purpose, but are getting reduced results, and becoming worn out trying. It is a good indication that something important is out of sync. We have identified this experience as an awareness of a “failure to thrive.” Jesus shows us the solution in John 15:1-27. This Sermon series and corresponding study will help you find PURPOSE and CONTENTMENT through deep daily, ongoing connection in JESUS.

It is extremely difficult to believe the difference between the two realities that Jesus describes in John 15 between futility and fruitfulness. Jesus teaches that “pruning” is part of that Abiding process. When difficult or painful circumstances come our way, we might think that God is punishing us for a wrong that we have done against him that hasn’t been forgiven. But the truth is that as God prunes us, He is treating us a loved sons and daughters. As He prunes something from us, He is giving something to us that is better by far! He make us abundantly more fruitful.

Discussion Questions and Action Steps for you and your family

With your family or a group of friends, identify a time in your life when something painful produced something really good. Discuss the ebb and flow of your confidence in the value of the pain and its end product.

Read John 15:1-2, 18-21; and Luke 19:1-10. How do these stories reveal God’s purpose when painful things happen to us? What insight or phrase captured your attention? Why do you imagine that the Holy Spirit drew your attention there? What do you discover about God/Jesus? What do you discover about humans/yourself?

When you think of God being the Gardener, does that make you happy… or nervous? Why? How do the elements in the story of Zacchaeus reflect your own story of becoming connected to Jesus? Tell someone this week about how your way isn’t working and your deeper longing for connection with Jesus Christ!

Gracefully Broken - Matt Redman

Click To Watch Video

Take all I have in these hands and multiply, God all that I am and find my heart on the altar again. Set me on fire. Set me on Fire.

Here I am, God, arms wide open; pouring out my life, gracefully broken.

My heart stands in awe of your name. Your mighty love stands strong to the end. You will fulfill your purpose for my. You won’t forsake me; You will be with me.

All to Jesus now. All to Jesus now. Holding nothing back. Holding nothing back. I surrender. I surrender. I surrender. I surrender!

“I am the True Vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in me that does not bear fruit He takes away, And every branch that does bear fruit He prunes that it may bear more fruit.”

John 15:1-2

Abide - Aaron Williams

Click To Watch Video

For my waking breath for my daily bread I depend on You, I depend on You; For the sun to rise for my sleep at night I depend on You, I depend on You; You're the way the truth and the life, You're the well that never runs dry; I'm the branch, and You are the vine, Draw me close and teach me to abide.

Where the Spirit leads as I'm following I depend on You, I depend on You; For the victories still in front of me I depend on You, I depend on You;

Be my strength my song in the night Be my all my treasure my prize, I am Yours; forever, Your mine, draw me close and teach me to abide

When I pass through death, as I enter rest, I depend on You, I depend on You; For eternal life to be raised with Christ, I depend on You, I depend on You. You're the way the truth and the life; You're the well that never runs dry. I'm the branch and You are the vine Draw me close and teach me to abide. I depend on You, Yes, I depend on You, I depend on You, I depend on You.

I Trust In God! - Maverick City

Click To Watch Video

Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine, He’s been my “fourth man in the fire” time after time; Born of His Spirit Washed in His blood; And what He did for me on Calvary Is more than enough!

I trust in God, My Savior; The One who will never fail He will never fail!

Perfect submission All is at rest I know the Author of tomorrow Has ordered my steps; So this is my story and this is my song praising my risen King and Savior all the day long.

I sought the Lord and He heard and He answered; (3x) That’s why I trust Him! That’s why I trust Him!

“If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love you as it own. But because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, Therefore, the world hates you!”

John 15:18-19

Turn Your Eyes - Natalie Grant

Click To Watch Video

O soul are you weary and troubled, No light in the darkness you see; But just one look at the Savior Is life more abundant and free. So just look up, your help is on the way.

Turn, turn your eyes upon Jesus; Look full, look full, look full in His wonderful face; And the things of earth will grow strangely dim, When you turn, turn your eyes upon him.

His Word forever unfailing, His promise an anchor to hold; Here in the midst of your sorrow, His presence is healing your soul. So just look up, your help is on the way!

In the light of his glory and grace, There is freedom, healing filling this place. In the light of his glory and grace, There’s revival, it’s stirring, shaking this place. In the light of his glory and grace, Hear the chains hit the ground all over this place

“Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time He may exalt you. Casting all your anxieties on Him, because He cares for you.”

1 Peter 5:6-7

WHEN YOUR WAY ISN’T WORKING October 4, 2026

Finding Purpose through Deep Connection with Jesus.

Week 5, The Purpose of Pruning!

John 15:2, 18-21; Luke 19:1-10


Slide #1 John 15:1-2

Slide #2 Matthew 4:19

Slide #3 John 15:18-21

Slide #4 Isaiah 64:8

Slide #5 Luke 19:1-10

Slide #6 Abide in Jesus as the Good Gardener Prunes

  • My EXCUSES resisting considering Jesus.
  • My FEAR of people’s opinions.
  • My PROCRASTINATION in responding to Jesus.
  • My PATTERNS that keep you on the “fringe.
  • My PRIVACY of my personal faith in Jesus.
  • My ALLEGIANCES to false securities.

Slide #7 1 Peter 5:6

This Sunday’s Worship Songs:
Praise
Resurrecting
Oceans (Where Feet May Fail)
Just As I Am
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From this Author: Rich Milliken
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October 6, 2026 • 7 Minute Read
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Where the Spirit leads as I'm following I depend on You, I depend on You; For the victories still in front of me I depend on You, I depend on You; Be my strength my song in the night Be my all my treasure my prize, I am Yours; forever, Your mine, draw me close and teach me to abide When I pass through death, as I enter rest, I depend on You, I depend on You; For eternal life to be raised with Christ, I depend on You, I depend on You. You're the way the truth and the life; You're the well that never runs dry. I'm the branch and You are the vine Draw me close and teach me to abide. I depend on You, Yes, I depend on You, I depend on You, I depend on You. I Trust In God! - Maverick CityClick To Watch Video Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine, He’s been my “fourth man in the fire” time after time; Born of His Spirit Washed in His blood; And what He did for me on Calvary Is more than enough! I trust in God, My Savior; The One who will never fail He will never fail! Perfect submission All is at rest I know the Author of tomorrow Has ordered my steps; So this is my story and this is my song praising my risen King and Savior all the day long. I sought the Lord and He heard and He answered; (3x) That’s why I trust Him! That’s why I trust Him! “If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love you as it own. But because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, Therefore, the world hates you!” John 15:18-19 Turn Your Eyes - Natalie GrantClick To Watch Video O soul are you weary and troubled, No light in the darkness you see; But just one look at the Savior Is life more abundant and free. So just look up, your help is on the way. Turn, turn your eyes upon Jesus; Look full, look full, look full in His wonderful face; And the things of earth will grow strangely dim, When you turn, turn your eyes upon him. His Word forever unfailing, His promise an anchor to hold; Here in the midst of your sorrow, His presence is healing your soul. So just look up, your help is on the way! In the light of his glory and grace, There is freedom, healing filling this place. In the light of his glory and grace, There’s revival, it’s stirring, shaking this place. In the light of his glory and grace, Hear the chains hit the ground all over this place “Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time He may exalt you. Casting all your anxieties on Him, because He cares for you.” 1 Peter 5:6-7 WHEN YOUR WAY ISN’T WORKING October 11, 2026 Finding Purpose through Deep Connection with Jesus. Week 6, Grafted and Growing! John 15:1-5, 26-27; Galatians 5:22-23 Slide #1 Psalm 84:1-4, 10-12 Slide #2 Luke 15:13-18 Slide #3 False “vines” offer futile promises that set themselves up against God’s good blessings. - The INFORMATION vine. - The POLITICS vine. - The ROMANCE vine. - The SELF vine. - The SUCCESS & WELATH vine. - The ENTERTAINMENT & PLEASURE vine. - The RELIGION & SPIRITUALITY vine. Slide #4 John 6:27 Slide #5 John 15:1-5 Slide #6 John 15:26-27 Slide #7 Galatians 5:22-23 This Sunday’s Worship Songs:Build Your Kingdom HereBetter Is One DayBuild My LifeTurn Your Eyes

Rich Milliken

Lead Minister

Currently Reading
September 29, 2026 • 7 Minute Read
Sunday, October 4, 2026
SERMON NOTES FOR SUNDAY, OCT 4, 2026 Prepare your heart for this Sunday’s morning message by reading the below Family Discipleship Plan, Discussion Questions & Action Steps, Sermon Slides & Songs. Family Study page John 15:2, 18-21 October 4, 2026 When Your Way Isn’t Working – Maybe you’ve found recently that you are getting more irritable with people. Or you’re feeling more overwhelmed and defeated by the challenges that life is throwing your way. Or you’re spending more time scanning social media than you are connecting with God in prayer. Suddenly aware that doing things your way isn’t working out the way you thought it would. If you are putting additional effort to make your life better, trying to find a full connection with your purpose, but are getting reduced results, and becoming worn out trying. It is a good indication that something important is out of sync. We have identified this experience as an awareness of a “failure to thrive.” Jesus shows us the solution in John 15:1-27. This Sermon series and corresponding study will help you find PURPOSE and CONTENTMENT through deep daily, ongoing connection in JESUS. It is extremely difficult to believe the difference between the two realities that Jesus describes in John 15 between futility and fruitfulness. Jesus teaches that “pruning” is part of that Abiding process. When difficult or painful circumstances come our way, we might think that God is punishing us for a wrong that we have done against him that hasn’t been forgiven. But the truth is that as God prunes us, He is treating us a loved sons and daughters. As He prunes something from us, He is giving something to us that is better by far! He make us abundantly more fruitful. Discussion Questions and Action Steps for you and your family With your family or a group of friends, identify a time in your life when something painful produced something really good. Discuss the ebb and flow of your confidence in the value of the pain and its end product. Read John 15:1-2, 18-21; and Luke 19:1-10. How do these stories reveal God’s purpose when painful things happen to us? What insight or phrase captured your attention? Why do you imagine that the Holy Spirit drew your attention there? What do you discover about God/Jesus? What do you discover about humans/yourself? When you think of God being the Gardener, does that make you happy… or nervous? Why? How do the elements in the story of Zacchaeus reflect your own story of becoming connected to Jesus? Tell someone this week about how your way isn’t working and your deeper longing for connection with Jesus Christ! Gracefully Broken - Matt RedmanClick To Watch Video Take all I have in these hands and multiply, God all that I am and find my heart on the altar again. Set me on fire. Set me on Fire. Here I am, God, arms wide open; pouring out my life, gracefully broken. My heart stands in awe of your name. Your mighty love stands strong to the end. You will fulfill your purpose for my. You won’t forsake me; You will be with me. All to Jesus now. All to Jesus now. Holding nothing back. Holding nothing back. I surrender. I surrender. I surrender. I surrender! “I am the True Vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in me that does not bear fruit He takes away, And every branch that does bear fruit He prunes that it may bear more fruit.” John 15:1-2 Abide - Aaron WilliamsClick To Watch Video For my waking breath for my daily bread I depend on You, I depend on You; For the sun to rise for my sleep at night I depend on You, I depend on You; You're the way the truth and the life, You're the well that never runs dry; I'm the branch, and You are the vine, Draw me close and teach me to abide. Where the Spirit leads as I'm following I depend on You, I depend on You; For the victories still in front of me I depend on You, I depend on You; Be my strength my song in the night Be my all my treasure my prize, I am Yours; forever, Your mine, draw me close and teach me to abide When I pass through death, as I enter rest, I depend on You, I depend on You; For eternal life to be raised with Christ, I depend on You, I depend on You. You're the way the truth and the life; You're the well that never runs dry. I'm the branch and You are the vine Draw me close and teach me to abide. I depend on You, Yes, I depend on You, I depend on You, I depend on You. I Trust In God! - Maverick CityClick To Watch Video Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine, He’s been my “fourth man in the fire” time after time; Born of His Spirit Washed in His blood; And what He did for me on Calvary Is more than enough! I trust in God, My Savior; The One who will never fail He will never fail! Perfect submission All is at rest I know the Author of tomorrow Has ordered my steps; So this is my story and this is my song praising my risen King and Savior all the day long. I sought the Lord and He heard and He answered; (3x) That’s why I trust Him! That’s why I trust Him! “If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love you as it own. But because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, Therefore, the world hates you!” John 15:18-19 Turn Your Eyes - Natalie GrantClick To Watch Video O soul are you weary and troubled, No light in the darkness you see; But just one look at the Savior Is life more abundant and free. So just look up, your help is on the way. Turn, turn your eyes upon Jesus; Look full, look full, look full in His wonderful face; And the things of earth will grow strangely dim, When you turn, turn your eyes upon him. His Word forever unfailing, His promise an anchor to hold; Here in the midst of your sorrow, His presence is healing your soul. So just look up, your help is on the way! In the light of his glory and grace, There is freedom, healing filling this place. In the light of his glory and grace, There’s revival, it’s stirring, shaking this place. In the light of his glory and grace, Hear the chains hit the ground all over this place “Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time He may exalt you. Casting all your anxieties on Him, because He cares for you.” 1 Peter 5:6-7 WHEN YOUR WAY ISN’T WORKING October 4, 2026 Finding Purpose through Deep Connection with Jesus. Week 5, The Purpose of Pruning! John 15:2, 18-21; Luke 19:1-10 Slide #1 John 15:1-2 Slide #2 Matthew 4:19 Slide #3 John 15:18-21 Slide #4 Isaiah 64:8 Slide #5 Luke 19:1-10 Slide #6 Abide in Jesus as the Good Gardener Prunes My EXCUSES resisting considering Jesus. My FEAR of people’s opinions. My PROCRASTINATION in responding to Jesus. My PATTERNS that keep you on the “fringe. My PRIVACY of my personal faith in Jesus. My ALLEGIANCES to false securities. Slide #7 1 Peter 5:6 This Sunday’s Worship Songs:PraiseResurrectingOceans (Where Feet May Fail)Just As I Am

Rich Milliken

Lead Minister

September 22, 2026 • 7 Minute Read
Sunday, September 27, 2026
SERMON NOTES FOR SUNDAY, SEPT 27, 2026 Prepare your heart for this Sunday’s morning message by reading the below Family Discipleship Plan, Discussion Questions & Action Steps, Sermon Slides & Songs. Family Study page Luke 5:1-11 John 15:5-8 Sept. 27, 2026 When Your Way Isn’t Working – Maybe you’ve found recently that you are getting more irritable with people. Or you’re feeling more overwhelmed and defeated by the challenges that life is throwing your way. Or you’re spending more time scanning social media than you are connecting with God in prayer. Suddenly aware that doing things your way isn’t working out the way you thought it would. If you are putting additional effort to make your life better, trying to find a full connection with your purpose, but are getting reduced results, and becoming worn out trying. It is a good indication that something important is out of sync. We have identified this experience as an awareness of a “failure to thrive.” Jesus shows us the solution in John 15:1-27. This Sermon series and corresponding study will help you find PURPOSE and CONTENTMENT through deep daily, ongoing connection in JESUS. So much of trusting and following Jesus seems backwards to what we think. To be great – be a servant. To save your life – you must lose it. To be filled with fruit – you must abide. The urge to focus on what we are producing and how to improve it, is shifted to an urge to connect to the vine. The story of Lazarus is a beautiful picture of the impact of a connected life. The Messiah calls you His friend! Discussion Questions and Action Steps for you and your family With your family or a group of friends, have people share about what “charts” they recall as a child that rewarded desired behavior. Who in their family was the best at excelling at the chart’s objectives? Read John 15:9-17; John 12:1-19. How do these stories reveal the desire of Jesus for us to pursue connection over production for God? What insight or phrase captured your attention? Why do you imagine that the Holy Spirit drew your attention there? What do you discover about God/Jesus? What do you discover about humans/yourself? What do you tend to put first – production for Jesus or connection with Him? If you are obsessed with production, what is holding you back from ABIDING in Him? Tell someone this week about how your way isn’t working and your deeper longing for connection with Jesus Christ! No Longer Slaves - Zach WilliamsClick To Watch Video I’m no longer a slave to fear. I am a child of God. I’m no longer a slave to fear. I am a child of God. You unravel me, with a melody; You surround me with a song of deliverance, from my enemies until all my fears are gone; From my mother’s womb You have chosen me Love has called my name; I’ve been born again, into a family Your blood flows through my veins. I am surrounded by the arms of the father; I am surrounded by songs of deliverance! We've been liberated from our bondage; We’re the sons and the daughters, Let us sing our freedom! You split the sea so I could walk right through; it my fears were drowned in perfect love; You rescued me and I will stand and sing: I am the child of God “I am the True Vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in me that does not bear fruit He takes away, And every branch that does bear fruit He prunes that it may bear more fruit.” John 15:1-2 Abide - Aaron WilliamsClick To Watch Video For my waking breath for my daily bread I depend on You, I depend on You; For the sun to rise for my sleep at night I depend on You, I depend on You; You're the way the truth and the life, You're the well that never runs dry; I'm the branch, and You are the vine, Draw me close and teach me to abide. Where the Spirit leads as I'm following I depend on You, I depend on You; For the victories still in front of me I depend on You, I depend on You; Be my strength my song in the night Be my all my treasure my prize, I am Yours; forever, Your mine, draw me close and teach me to abide When I pass through death, as I enter rest, I depend on You, I depend on You; For eternal life to be raised with Christ, I depend on You, I depend on You. You're the way the truth and the life; You're the well that never runs dry. I'm the branch and You are the vine Draw me close and teach me to abide. I depend on You, Yes, I depend on You, I depend on You, I depend on You. I Trust In God! - Maverick CityClick To Watch Video Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine, He’s been my “fourth man in the fire” time after time; Born of His Spirit Washed in His blood; And what He did for me on Calvary Is more than enough! I trust in God, My Savior; The One who will never fail He will never fail! Perfect submission All is at rest I know the Author of tomorrow Has ordered my steps; So this is my story and this is my song praising my risen King and Savior all the day long. I sought the Lord and He heard and He answered; (3x) That’s why I trust Him! That’s why I trust Him! “If anyone does not abide in me he is thrown away like a branch and withers; And the branches are gathered, thrown into the fire and burned. As the Father has loved me, so have I love you. Abide in my love!” John 15:6, 9 Turn Your Eyes - Natalie GrantClick To Watch Video O soul are you weary and troubled, No light in the darkness you see; But just one look at the Savior Is life more abundant and free. So just look up, your help is on the way. Turn, turn your eyes upon Jesus; Look full, look full, look full in His wonderful face; And the things of earth will grow strangely dim, When you turn, turn your eyes upon him. His Word forever unfailing, His promise an anchor to hold; Here in the midst of your sorrow, His presence is healing your soul. So just look up, your help is on the way! In the light of his glory and grace, There is freedom, healing filling this place. In the light of his glory and grace, There’s revival, it’s stirring, shaking this place. In the light of his glory and grace, Hear the chains hit the ground all over this place “Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time He may exalt you. Casting all your anxieties on Him, because He cares for you.” 1 Peter 5:6-7 WHEN YOUR WAY ISN’T WORKING September 27, 2026 Finding Purpose through Deep Connection with Jesus. Week 4, The Way Of Connection! John 15:12-17; John 12:1-19 Slide #1 John 15:4, 12-17 Slide #2 Romans 8:38-39 Slide #3 John 12 :1-3 Slide #4 John 12:9-11, 17-19 Slide #5 “The challenge for most of us is that when our way isn’t working, we instinctively double down on production and make it (the fruit) happen out of our own effort and determination.” Slide #6 Matthew 7:21-23 Slide #7 Rewire your soul for the Way Of Connection Live in God’s extravagant love. Matthew 22:37 Practice Rest and Sabbath. Exodus 20:8 Treasure the words of God. Psalm 1:2-3 Pursue the presence and patterns of Jesus. Matthew 11:28-29 This Sunday’s Worship Songs:Your Grace Is EnoughTrust In GodDraw Me NearerYour Nearness

Rich Milliken

Lead Minister

September 15, 2026 • 7 Minute Read
Sunday, September 20, 2026
SERMON NOTES FOR SUNDAY, SEPT 20, 2026 Prepare your heart for this Sunday’s morning message by reading the below Family Discipleship Plan, Discussion Questions & Action Steps, Sermon Slides & Songs. Family Study page Luke 5:1-11; John 15:9-15 Sept 20, 2026 When Your Way Isn’t Working – Maybe you’ve found recently that you are getting more irritable with people. Or you’re feeling more overwhelmed and defeated by the challenges that life is throwing your way. Or you’re spending more time scanning social media than you are connecting with God in prayer. Suddenly aware that doing things your way isn’t working out the way you thought it would. If you are putting additional effort to make your life better, trying to find a full connection with your purpose, but are getting reduced results, and becoming worn out trying. It is a good indication that something important is out of sync. We have identified this experience as an awareness of a “failure to thrive”. Jesus shows us the solution in John 15:1-27. This Sermon series and corresponding study will help you find PURPOSE and CONTENTMENT through deep daily, ongoing connection in JESUS. Jesus is the demonstration of the longing of God to connect with you in a deep and satisfying relationship. God even created you to notice when vital systems are not working at full capacity. You will notice it when a disconnection in your system happens. Satisfaction and contentment have been replaced by disappointment, fear, frustration, and fatigue. When the vital sign indicates “disconnection” between you and God, restored connection can happen immediately. Discussion Questions and Action Steps for you and your family With your family or a group of friends, identify a list of 20 road signs that you see regularly through the week. Have you ever ignored a sign that you saw? Why? Do you think that God has given you any signs to draw you closer to Him? Read John 15:5-11; Luke 15:1-7; and 1 Samuel 1:1-18 How do these stories reveal how emotions can provide some indication of the condition of our connection with God? What insight or phrase captured your attention? Why do you imagine that the Holy Spirit drew your attention there? What do you discover about God/Jesus? What do you discover about humans/yourself? What is something that you are doing that is making you feel tired, warn-out, or discouraged? How hard is it for you to admit that your way isn’t working? Tell someone this week about an area where you are realizing that your way isn’t working and your desire for more Jesus! Reckless Love - Cory AsburyClick To Watch Video Before I spoke a word, You were singing over me; You have been so, so good to me. Before I took a breath, You breathed Your life in me; You have been so, so kind to me. Oh, the overwhelming, never-ending, reckless love of God; Oh, it chases me down, fights ‘til I’m found, leaves the ninety-nine I couldn’t earn it, I don’t deserve it, still You give Yourself away Oh, the overwhelming, never-ending, reckless love of God When I was Your foe, still Your love fought for me; You have been so, so good to me. When I felt no worth, You paid it all for me; You have been so, so kind to me. There’s no shadow You won’t light up, Mountain You won’t climb up, Coming after me; There’s no wall You won’t kick down, Lie You won’t tear down Coming after me. “I am the True Vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in me that does not bear fruit He takes away, And every branch that does bear fruit He prunes that it may bear more fruit.” John 15:1-2 Abide - Aaron WilliamsClick To Watch Video For my waking breath for my daily bread I depend on You, I depend on You; For the sun to rise for my sleep at night I depend on You, I depend on You; You're the way the truth and the life, You're the well that never runs dry; I'm the branch, and You are the vine, Draw me close and teach me to abide. Where the Spirit leads as I'm following I depend on You, I depend on You; For the victories still in front of me I depend on You, I depend on You; Be my strength my song in the night Be my all my treasure my prize I am Yours forever Your mine Draw me close and teach me to abide When I pass through death, as I enter rest, I depend on You, I depend on You; For eternal life to be raised with Christ, I depend on You, I depend on You. You're the way the truth and the life; You're the well that never runs dry. I'm the branch and You are the vine Draw me close and teach me to abide. I depend on You, Yes, I depend on You, I depend on You, I depend on You. What A Friend We Have In Jesus! - Charles ConverseClick To Watch Video What a friend we have in Jesus, All our sins and griefs to bear; What a privilege to carry Everything to God in prayer! O what peace we often forfeit, O what needless pain we bear, All because we do not carry everything to God in prayer. Are we weak and heavy laden, cumbered with a load of care? Precious Savior, still our refuge – Take it to the Lord in prayer! Do your friends despise, forsake you? Take it to the Lord in prayer! In His arms He’ll take and shield you – You will find a solace there. “Now, therefore, thus says the LORD of Hosts: Consider your ways. You have sown much, and harvested little. You eat, but never have enough; You drink, but never have your fill. You clothe yourselves, but no one is warm. And He who earns wages, Does so to put them into a bag with holes!” Haggai 1:5-7 Turn Your Eyes - Natalie GrantClick To Watch Video O soul are you weary and troubled, No light in the darkness you see; But just one look at the Savior Is life more abundant and free. So just look up, your help is on the way. Turn, turn your eyes upon Jesus; Look full, look full, look full in His wonderful face; And the things of earth will grow strangely dim, When you turn, turn your eyes upon him. His Word forever unfailing, His promise an anchor to hold; Here in the midst of your sorrow, His presence is healing your soul. So just look up, your help is on the way! In the light of his glory and grace, There is freedom, healing filling this place. In the light of his glory and grace, There’s revival, it’s stirring, shaking this place. In the light of his glory and grace, Hear the chains hit the ground all over this place “For the Son of Man came to seek and to save that which is lost.” Luke 19:10 WHEN YOUR WAY ISN’T WORKING September 20, 2026 Finding Purpose through Deep Connection with Jesus. Week 3, The Wheel of Emotions! John 15:9-15; Luke 5:1-11 Slide #1 John 15:12-15 Slide #2 Luke 5:5-11 Slide #3 You are God’s Ambassador to people when their way isn’t working. (lessons from Peter’s story) Thank God for all the people around you today. Listen to their story and lighten their load. How long have you lived in this neighborhood? What is your favorite thing about the neighborhood? What do you think that would make this neighborhood even better? Ask Jesus to give you a way to bless them. Express grace if their first response is to reject you. Tell your story of leaving “my own way” to follow Jesus and pray for them. Slide #4 Philippians 3:8 This Sunday’s Worship Songs:I Will FollowI Speak Jesus

Rich Milliken

Lead Minister

September 9, 2026 • 7 Minute Read
Sunday, September 13, 2026
SERMON NOTES FOR SUNDAY, SEPT 13, 2026 Prepare your heart for this Sunday’s morning message by reading the below Family Discipleship Plan, Discussion Questions & Action Steps, Sermon Slides & Songs. Family Study page Luke 15:1-7; John 15:5-8 Sept 13, 2026 When Your Way Isn’t Working – Maybe you’ve found recently that you are getting more irritable with people. Or you’re feeling more overwhelmed and defeated by the challenges that life is throwing your way. Or you’re spending more time scanning social media than you are connecting with God in prayer. Suddenly aware that doing things your way isn’t working out the way you thought it would. If you are putting additional effort to make your life better, trying to find a full connection with your purpose, but are getting reduced results, and becoming worn out trying. It is a good indication that something important is out of sync. We have identified this experience as an awareness of a “failure to thrive”. Jesus shows us the solution in John 15:1-27. This Sermon series and corresponding study will help you find PURPOSE and CONTENTMENT through deep daily, ongoing connection in JESUS. Jesus is the demonstration of the longing of God to connect with you in a deep and satisfying relationship. God even created you to notice when vital systems are not working at full capacity. You will notice it when a disconnection in your system happens. Satisfaction and contentment have been replaced by disappointment, fear, frustration, and fatigue. When the vital sign indicates “disconnection” between you and God, restored connection can happen immediately. Discussion Questions and Action Steps for you and your family With your family or a group of friends, identify a list of 20 road signs that you see regularly through the week. Have you ever ignored a sign that you saw? Why? Do you think that God has given you any signs to draw you closer to Him? Read John 15:5-11; Luke 15:1-7; and 1 Samuel 1:1-18 How do these stories reveal how emotions can provide some indication of the condition of our connection with God? What insight or phrase captured your attention? Why do you imagine that the Holy Spirit drew your attention there? What do you discover about God/Jesus? What do you discover about humans/yourself? What is something that you are doing that is making you feel tired, warn-out, or discouraged? How hard is it for you to admit that your way isn’t working? Tell someone this week about an area where you are realizing that your way isn’t working and your desire for more Jesus! Reckless Love - Cory AsburyClick To Watch Video Before I spoke a word, You were singing over me; You have been so, so good to me. Before I took a breath, You breathed Your life in me; You have been so, so kind to me. Oh, the overwhelming, never-ending, reckless love of God; Oh, it chases me down, fights ‘til I’m found, leaves the ninety-nine I couldn’t earn it, I don’t deserve it, still You give Yourself away Oh, the overwhelming, never-ending, reckless love of God When I was Your foe, still Your love fought for me; You have been so, so good to me. When I felt no worth, You paid it all for me; You have been so, so kind to me. There’s no shadow You won’t light up, Mountain You won’t climb up, Coming after me; There’s no wall You won’t kick down, Lie You won’t tear down Coming after me. “I am the True Vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in me that does not bear fruit He takes away, And every branch that does bear fruit He prunes that it may bear more fruit.” John 15:1-2 Abide - Aaron WilliamsClick To Watch Video For my waking breath for my daily bread I depend on You, I depend on You; For the sun to rise for my sleep at night I depend on You, I depend on You; You're the way the truth and the life, You're the well that never runs dry; I'm the branch, and You are the vine, Draw me close and teach me to abide. Where the Spirit leads as I'm following I depend on You, I depend on You; For the victories still in front of me I depend on You, I depend on You; Be my strength my song in the night Be my all my treasure my prize I am Yours forever Your mine Draw me close and teach me to abide When I pass through death, as I enter rest, I depend on You, I depend on You; For eternal life to be raised with Christ, I depend on You, I depend on You. You're the way the truth and the life; You're the well that never runs dry. I'm the branch and You are the vine Draw me close and teach me to abide. I depend on You, Yes, I depend on You, I depend on You, I depend on You. What A Friend We Have In Jesus! - Charles ConverseClick To Watch Video What a friend we have in Jesus, All our sins and griefs to bear; What a privilege to carry Everything to God in prayer! O what peace we often forfeit, O what needless pain we bear, All because we do not carry everything to God in prayer. Are we weak and heavy laden, cumbered with a load of care? Precious Savior, still our refuge – Take it to the Lord in prayer! Do your friends despise, forsake you? Take it to the Lord in prayer! In His arms He’ll take and shield you – You will find a solace there. “Now, therefore, thus says the LORD of Hosts: Consider your ways. You have sown much, and harvested little. You eat, but never have enough; You drink, but never have your fill. You clothe yourselves, but no one is warm. And He who earns wages, Does so to put them into a bag with holes!” Haggai 1:5-7 Turn Your Eyes - Natalie GrantClick To Watch Video O soul are you weary and troubled, No light in the darkness you see; But just one look at the Savior Is life more abundant and free. So just look up, your help is on the way. Turn, turn your eyes upon Jesus; Look full, look full, look full in His wonderful face; And the things of earth will grow strangely dim, When you turn, turn your eyes upon him. His Word forever unfailing, His promise an anchor to hold; Here in the midst of your sorrow, His presence is healing your soul. So just look up, your help is on the way! In the light of his glory and grace, There is freedom, healing filling this place. In the light of his glory and grace, There’s revival, it’s stirring, shaking this place. In the light of his glory and grace, Hear the chains hit the ground all over this place “For the Son of Man came to seek and to save that which is lost.” Luke 19:10 WHEN YOUR WAY ISN’T WORKING September 13, 2026 Finding Purpose through Deep Connection with Jesus. Week 2, Diagnosing my Disconnection! John 15:5-8; Luke 15:1-7 Slide #1 John 15:5-11 Slide #2 Isaiah 53:6-7 Slide #3 1 Samuel 1:10-18 Slide #4 Luke 19:10 Slide #5 Luke 15:1-7 Slide #6 Proverbs 3:5-6 Slide #7 Check for the Four Feelings of Futility - Discouragement- the loss of hope - Fatigue- the loss of energy to keep trying - Frustration- the heightened anger at normal set-backs - Anxiety- the general dread of impending trouble Slide #8 John 15:6-7 This Sunday’s Worship Songs: Glorious DayNo Longer Slaves Thank You Jesus For The Blood What A Friend WE Have In Jesus

Rich Milliken

Lead Minister

September 2, 2026 • 7 Minute Read
Sunday, September 6, 2026
SERMON NOTES FOR SUNDAY, SEPT 06, 2026 Prepare your heart for this Sunday’s morning message by reading the below Family Discipleship Plan, Discussion Questions & Action Steps, Sermon Slides & Songs. Family Study page John 1:14; 15:1-2 Sept. 6, 2026 When Your Way Isn’t Working – Maybe you’ve found recently that you are getting more irritable with people. Or you’re feeling more overwhelmed and defeated by the challenges that life is throwing your way. Or you’re spending more time scanning social media than you are connecting with God in prayer. Suddenly aware that doing things your way isn’t working out the way you thought it would. If you are putting additional effort to make your life better, trying to find a full connection with your purpose, but are getting reduced results, and becoming worn out trying. It is a good indication that something important is out of sync. We have identified this experience as an awareness of a “failure to thrive”. Jesus shows us the solution in John 15:1-27. This Sermon series and corresponding study will help you find PURPOSE and CONTENTMENT through deep daily, ongoing connection in JESUS. Jesus demonstrates the longing of God to connect with you in a deep and satisfying relationship. This theme of longing for connection is revealed in all of scripture. But it is magnified in the incarnation of Jesus who came to be with us. The God who created you has provided a way into relationship with you. Why would we choose anything less? Today, Jesus’ words will diagnose the symptoms of disillusionment, disconnection, and disappointment that are resulting in your failure to thrive. Discussion Questions and Action Steps for you and your family With your family or a group of friends, try to identify 20 tools or ways that help you connect with the people you care most about. Which of those items are especially helpful in overcoming the things that disconnect you to achieve meaningful relationship? Read John 15:1-17 and John 1:9-14. How does John present God’s desire for connection with humans in these verses? What insight or phrase captured your attention? Why do you imagine that the Holy Spirit drew your attention there? What do you discover about God/Jesus? What do you discover about humans/yourself? In what areas of your life are you trying to live independent of God’s provision, pruning, and guidance? How can the family of God help you recover from your fierce self-sufficiency? Share your insights with someone this week! New Wine - HillsongClick To Watch Video In the crushing In the pressing You are making new wine; In the soil I now surrender You are breaking new ground. So, I yield to You and to Your careful hand, When I trust You I don’t need to understand. Make me Your vessel, Make me an offering, Make me whatever You want me to be; I came here with nothing But all You have given me Jesus bring new wine out of me Where there is new wine There is new power There is new freedom The Kingdom is here I lay down my old flames To carry Your new fire today A prayer response: (Lord, Set a fire down in my soul, That I can't contain and I can't control; I want more of you God; I want more of you God!) “I am the True Vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in me that does not bear fruit He takes away, And every branch that does bear fruit He prunes that it may bear more fruit.” John 15:1-2 Abide - Aaron WilliamsClick To Watch Video For my waking breath for my daily bread I depend on You, I depend on You; For the sun to rise for my sleep at night I depend on You, I depend on You; You're the way the truth and the life, You're the well that never runs dry; I'm the branch, and You are the vine, Draw me close and teach me to abide. Where the Spirit leads as I'm following I depend on You, I depend on You; For the victories still in front of me I depend on You, I depend on You; Be my strength my song in the night Be my all my treasure my prize I am Yours forever Your mine Draw me close and teach me to abide When I pass through death, as I enter rest, I depend on You, I depend on You; For eternal life to be raised with Christ, I depend on You, I depend on You. You're the way the truth and the life; You're the well that never runs dry. I'm the branch and You are the vine Draw me close and teach me to abide. I depend on You, Yes, I depend on You, I depend on You, I depend on You. Give Me Jesus - Fernando OrtegaClick To Watch Video In the Morning when I rise; In the morning when I rise. In the morning when I rise, Give me Jesus! Give Me Jesus. Give me Jesus. You can have all this world, just give me Jesus! And when I am alone; Oh, when I am alone; And when I am alone, Give me Jesus. And when I come to die; oh, when I come to die; When I come to die, Give me Jesus! Turn Your Eyes - Natalie GrantClick To Watch Video O soul are you weary and troubled, No light in the darkness you see; But just one look at the Savior Is life more abundant and free. So just look up, your help is on the way. Turn, turn your eyes upon Jesus; Look full, look full, look full in His wonderful face; And the things of earth will grow strangely dim, When you turn, turn your eyes upon him. His Word forever unfailing, His promise an anchor to hold; Here in the midst of your sorrow, His presence is healing your soul. So just look up, your help is on the way! In the light of his glory and grace, There is freedom, healing filling this place. In the light of his glory and grace, There’s revival, it’s stirring, shaking this place. In the light of his glory and grace, Hear the chains hit the ground all over this place “Now, therefore, thus says the LORD of Hosts: Consider your ways. You have sown much, and harvested little. You eat, but never have enough; You drink, but never have your fill. You clothe yourselves, but no one is warm. And He who earns wages, Does so to put them into a bag with holes!” Haggai 1:5-6 WHEN YOUR WAY ISN’T WORKING September 6, 2026 Finding Purpose through Deep Connection with Jesus. Week 1, CONNECT! The Unimaginable Invitation! John 15:1-2; John 1:14 Slide #1 John 15:1-4 Slide #2 Genesis 1:28-31 Slide #3 Genesis 3:6-8 Slide #4 Isaiah 55:6-8 Slide #5 John 1:14 Slide #6 2 Corinthians 5:20-21 Slide #7 John 15:1-2 Slide #8 Rediscovering the blessing of CONNECTION in Jesus Christ. - God alone offers un-merited favor to broken lives. - Jesus alone is the Access to Relationship with God. - Faith alone is the catalyst for connection. - Faith expresses in allegiance, repentance, confession, baptism, and increasing fruitfulness. This Sunday’s Worship Songs:Mighty To SaveReckless LoveHow Deep The Father's Love For Us

Rich Milliken

Lead Minister

August 20, 2026 • 6 Minute Read
Sunday, August 30, 2026
SERMON NOTES FOR SUNDAY, AUG 30, 2026 Prepare your heart for this Sunday’s morning message by reading the below Family Discipleship Plan, Discussion Questions & Action Steps, Sermon Slides & Songs. Family Study page John 15:5; 2 Cor. 9:8-11 August 30, 2026 VITAL SIGN - There are moments, by God’s grace, when the chaotic pace of life suddenly pauses. A rare moment of sanity and awareness breaks through the noise and the schedule. For a moment you can see the fog that surrounds you. Suddenly, a fresh barrage of questions enter your mind. “What am I doing?” “How did I get here?” “Is all of this activity moving me, my marriage, our family, where we intended?” “How do I get out from under the “good things” that have dog-piled on me so I can catch my breath?” Life’s moments, decisions, and obligations are not something you can just put on “auto pilot”. Either you are managing the various elements of your life, or they are controlling you. Suddenly you realize that your “self-driving-life” has put you in the back seat, and is taking you in a direction you do not want to go. In that moment, what vital sign do you check to assess your health and identify your critical next steps. In the hours just before He would be arrested, beaten, and nailed to a wooden crossbeam, Jesus identified a critical assessment for human life. Three statements, only 31 words, provide our assessment of a critical vital sign for life- “how is your RELATIONSHIP with Jesus”. For centuries since that evening conversation, disciples of Jesus across the globe have found healing clarity and a pathway to a life of thriving fruitfulness in this assessment. Today, Jesus’ words will diagnose the symptoms of disillusionment, disconnection, and disappointment that are resulting in your failure to thrive. Discussion Questions and Action Steps for you and your family With your family or a group of friends, try to identify something that is completely self-sufficient and can thrive completely independent of any other object. When have you wanted to live self-sufficiently? Read John 15:5-8 and Acts 17:24-25. What do you learn about God’s important provision for you to experience a thriving life? What insight or phrase captured your attention? Why do you imagine that the Holy Spirit drew your attention there? What do you discover about God/Jesus? What do you discover about humans/yourself? In what areas of your life are you trying to live independent of God’s provision and guidance? How can the family of God help you recover from your fierce self-sufficiency? Share your insights with someone this week! O Love That Will Not Let Me Go - George MathesonClick To Watch Video O Love that will not let me go, I rest my weary soul in Thee; I give Thee back the Life I owe, That in Thine ocean depths Its flow may richer, fuller be. O Light that follows all my way, I yield my flickering torch to Thee; My heart restores its borrowed ray that in Thy sunshine’s blaze Its day may brighter, fairer be. O Joy that seeks me through pain, I cannot close my heart to Thee; I trace the rainbow through the rain, and feel the promise is not vain That morn shall tearless be. O Cross that li-fts up my head, I dare not ask to stray from Thee; I lay in dust life’s glory dead, and from the ground there blossoms red, Life that shall endless be. A prayer response: (Lord, Set a fire down in my soul, That I can't contain and I can't control; I want more of you God; I want more of you God!) “I am the vine. You are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in Him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.” John 15:5 Great Is Thy Faithfulness - William RunyonClick To Watch Video Great is Thy faithfulness, O Go my Father! There is no shadow of turning with Thee; Thou changest not, thy compassions, they fail not: As Thou hast been, Thou forever shall be. Great is thy faithfulness, Great is Thy faithfulness, Morning by morning new mercies I see; All I have needed Thy hand hath provided! Great is Thy Faithfulness, Lord unto me. Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth, Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide, Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow – Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside. Turn Your Eyes - Natalie GrantClick To Watch Video O soul are you weary and troubled, No light in the darkness you see; But just one look at the Savior Is life more abundant and free. So just look up, your help is on the way. Turn, turn your eyes upon Jesus; Look full, look full, look full in His wonderful face; And the things of earth will grow strangely dim, When you turn, turn your eyes upon him. His Word forever unfailing, His promise an anchor to hold; Here in the midst of your sorrow, His presence is healing your soul. So just look up, your help is on the way! In the light of his glory and grace, There is freedom, healing filling this place. In the light of his glory and grace, There’s revival, it’s stirring, shaking this place. In the light of his glory and grace, Hear the chains hit the ground all over this place “Now, therefore, thus says the LORD of Hosts: Consider your ways. You have sown much, and harvested little. You eat, but never have enough; You drink, but never have your fill. You clothe yourselves, but no one is warm. And He who earns wages, Does so to put them into a bag with holes!” Haggai 1:5-6 Give Me Jesus - Fernando OrtegaClick To Watch Video In the Morning when I rise; In the morning when I rise. In the morning when I rise, Give me Jesus! Give Me Jesus. Give me Jesus. You can have all this world, just give me Jesus! And when I am alone; Oh, when I am alone; And when I am alone, Give me Jesus. And when I come to die; oh, when I come to die; When I come to die, Give me Jesus! VITAL SIGN August 30, 2026 Diagnosis of our failure to … THRIVE! Week 3, The Illusion of SELF-SUFFICIENCY! John 15:5 Slide #1 John 15:5-8 Slide #2 John 14:12-14, 16-17 Slide #3 “For apart from Me …” Slide #4 Illusion of Independence – The lie that hopes to thrive by denying or excluding Jesus. Slide #5 “… you can do nothing.” Slide #6 Illusion of Self-Sufficiency – The lie that promises fulfillment and satisfaction, actually evaporates to NOTHING! Slide #7 Shocked to life from a life of Self-Sufficiency. - The Goodness of God gives you life. Acts 17:24-25 - The Grace of God sustains you. John 20:11 - The Generosity of God is yours by faith. John 4:14-15 - The Glory of God flows through you. Ephesians 1:12 Slide #8 2 Corinthians 9:8, 11 This Sunday’s Worship Songs:House Of The LordWorthy Of It AllAll I Have Is Christ

Rich Milliken

Lead Minister

August 17, 2026 • 6 Minute Read
Sunday, August 23, 2026
SERMON NOTES FOR SUNDAY, AUG 23, 2026 Prepare your heart for this Sunday’s morning message by reading the below Family Discipleship Plan, Discussion Questions & Action Steps, Sermon Slides & Songs. Family Study page John 15:5; Haggai 1:5-6 August 23, 2026 VITAL SIGN - There are moments, by God’s grace, when the chaotic pace of life suddenly pauses. A rare moment of sanity and awareness breaks through the noise and the schedule. For a moment you can see the fog that surrounds you. Suddenly, a fresh barrage of questions enter your mind. “What am I doing?” “How did I get here?” “Is all of this activity moving me, my marriage, our family, where we intended?” “How do I get out from under the “good things” that have dog-piled on me so I can catch my breath?” Life’s moments, decisions, and obligations are not something you can just put on “auto pilot”. Either you are managing the various elements of your life, or they are controlling you. Suddenly you realize that your “self-driving-life” has put you in the back seat, and is taking you in a direction you do not want to go. In that moment, what vital sign do you check to assess your health and identify your critical next steps. In the hours just before He would be arrested, beaten, and nailed to a wooden crossbeam, Jesus identified a critical assessment for human life. Three statements, only 31 words, provide our assessment of a critical vital sign for life - “how is your connection with Jesus. For centuries since that evening conversation, disciples of Jesus across the globe have found healing clarity and a pathway to a life of thriving fruitfulness. Today, Jesus’ words will diagnose the symptoms of disillusionment, disconnection, and disappointment that are resulting in your failure to thrive. Discussion Questions and Action Steps for you and your family With your family or a group of friends, have one person tell a story of having only half attention to a task. What frequently is your current cause of distraction. Read John 15:1-5 and 2 Kings 17:33. What do you learn about God’s desire to have an essential and exclusive relationship with you? What insight or phrase captured your attention? Why do you imagine that the Holy Spirit drew your attention there? What do you discover about God/Jesus? What do you discover about humans/yourself? How would you rate the status of your current connection as a branch to the Vine/Jesus? What happened to your connection with Jeus that most impacted the quality of your fruit? Share your insights with someone this week! O Love That Will Not Let Me Go - George MathesonClick To Watch Video O Love that will not let me go, I rest my weary soul in Thee; I give Thee back the Life I owe, That in Thine ocean depths Its flow may richer, fuller be. O Light that follows all my way, I yield my flickering torch to Thee; My heart restores its borrowed ray that in Thy sunshine’s blaze Its day may brighter, fairer be. O Joy that seeks me through pain, I cannot close my heart to Thee; I trace the rainbow through the rain, and feel the promise is not vain That morn shall tearless be. O Cross that li-fts up my head, I dare not ask to stray from Thee; I lay in dust life’s glory dead, and from the ground there blossoms red, Life that shall endless be. A prayer response: (Lord, Set a fire down in my soul, That I can't contain and I can't control; I want more of you God; I want more of you God!) “I am the vine. You are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in Him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.” John 15:5 Great Is Thy Faithfulness - William RunyonClick To Watch Video Great is Thy faithfulness, O Go my Father! There is no shadow of turning with Thee; Thou changest not, thy compassions, they fail not: As Thou hast been, Thou forever shall be. Great is thy faithfulness, Great is Thy faithfulness, Morning by morning new mercies I see; All I have needed Thy hand hath provided! Great is Thy Faithfulness, Lord unto me. Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth, Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide, Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow – Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside. Turn Your Eyes - Natalie GrantClick To Watch Video O soul are you weary and troubled, No light in the darkness you see; But just one look at the Savior Is life more abundant and free. So just look up, your help is on the way. Turn, turn your eyes upon Jesus; Look full, look full, look full in His wonderful face; And the things of earth will grow strangely dim, When you turn, turn your eyes upon him. His Word forever unfailing, His promise an anchor to hold; Here in the midst of your sorrow, His presence is healing your soul. So just look up, your help is on the way! In the light of his glory and grace, There is freedom, healing filling this place. In the light of his glory and grace, There’s revival, it’s stirring, shaking this place. In the light of his glory and grace, Hear the chains hit the ground all over this place “Now, therefore, thus says the LORD of Hosts: Consider your ways. You have sown much, and harvested little. You eat, but never have enough; You drink, but never have your fill. You clothe yourselves, but no one is warm. And He who earns wages, Does so to put them into a bag with holes!” Haggai 1:5-6 Give Me Jesus - Fernando OrtegaClick To Watch Video In the Morning when I rise; In the morning when I rise. In the morning when I rise, Give me Jesus! Give Me Jesus. Give me Jesus. You can have all this world, just give me Jesus! And when I am alone; Oh, when I am alone; And when I am alone, Give me Jesus. And when I come to die; oh, when I come to die; When I come to die, Give me Jesus! VITAL SIGN August 23, 2026 Diagnosis of our failure to … THRIVE! Week 2, The Deception of PARTIAL CONNECTION! John 15:5; Haggai 1:5-6 Slide #1 John 15:1-5 Slide #2 Deuteronomy 4:39 Slide #3 2 Kings 17:33 Slide #4 John 15:5 Slide #5 A full and intentional connection with Jesus produces Life that abounds in fruitfulness. A partial connection to Jesus results in a failure to thrive. Slide #6 Diagnosing a partial connection. - Do you live a “Jesus … AND” life? - Do you live a “Jesus … WITH” life? - Do you live a “Jesus … LITE” life? - Do you live a “Jesus … SHELF” life? - Do you live a “Jesus … EXCLUDED” life? Slide #7 You can have a “Jesus COMPLETELY” life. Slide #8 Matthew 6:33 This Sunday’s Worship Songs:Build My LifeTake My Life And Let It BeTurn Your Eyes Upon Jesus

Rich Milliken

Lead Minister

August 12, 2026 • 6 Minute Read
Sunday, August 16, 2026
SERMON NOTES FOR SUNDAY, AUGUST 16, 2026 Prepare your heart for this Sunday’s morning message by reading the below Family Discipleship Plan, Discussion Questions & Action Steps, Sermon Slides & Songs. Family Study page John 15:5; Haggai 1:5-6 August 16, 2026 VITAL SIGN - There are moments, by God’s grace, when the chaotic pace of life suddenly pauses. A rare moment of sanity and awareness breaks through the noise and the schedule. For a moment you can see the fog that surrounds you. Suddenly, a fresh barrage of questions enter your mind. “What am I doing?” “How did I get here?” “Is all of this activity moving me, my marriage, our family, where we intended?” “How do I get out from under the “good things” that have dog-piled on me so I can catch my breath?” Life’s moments, decisions, and obligations are not something you can just put on “auto pilot”. Either you are managing the various elements of your life, or they are controlling you. Suddenly you realize that your “self-driving-life” has put you in the back seat, and is taking you in a direction you do not want to go. In that moment, what vital sign do you check to assess your health and Identify your critical next steps. In the hours just before He would be arrested, beaten, and nailed to a wooden crossbeam, Jesus identified a critical assessment for human life. Three statements, only 31 words, provide our assessment of a critical vital sign for life- “how is your connection with Jesus. For centuries since that evening conversation, disciples of Jesus across the globe have found healing clarity and a pathway to a life of thriving fruitfulness. Today, Jesus’ words will diagnose the symptoms of disillusionment, disconnection, and disappointment that are resulting in your failure to thrive. Discussion Questions and Action Steps for you and your family With your family or a group of friends, have one person share a “green thumb” story of helping a plant to thrive. Have someone else share a “not-so-green thumb” experience. Read John 10:10; 15:5 and Matthew 13:1-9. What do these verses teach you about God’s desire to have you thrive in relationship with Him? What insight or phrase captured your attention? Why? What do you discover about God/Jesus? What do you discover about humans/yourself? How does the image of the vine and the branch inform important aspects of your identity in Jesus? What false identity, threatens your identity as a branch? Share your insights with someone this week! Praise - Elevation WorshipClick To Watch Video Let everything that has breath Praise the Lord! Oh, my soul! I’ll praise in the valley; Praise on the mountain; I’ll praise when I’m sure, Praise when I’m doubting. I’ll praise when outnumbered; Praise when surrounded; Cause praise is the waters My enemies drown in! As long as I’m breathing I’ve got a reason to Praise the Lord! Oh my soul! I’ll praise when I feel it, I’ll praise when I don’t; I’ll praise cause I know You’re still in control; My praise is a weapon, It’s more than a sound; My praise is the shout That brings Jericho down! Praise the Lord Oh my soul! Praise the Lord Oh my soul! I won’t be quiet My God is alive How could I keep it inside Praise the Lord oh my soul I’ll praise cause You’re sovereign Praise cause You reign; Praise cause You rose and defeated the grave; I’ll praise cause You’re faithful Praise cause You’re true; Praise cause there’s nobody greater than You! “I am the vine. You are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in Him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.” John 15:5 Great Is Thy Faithfulness - William RunyonClick To Watch Video Great is Thy faithfulness, O Go my Father! There is no shadow of turning with Thee; Thou changest not, thy compassions, they fail not: As Thou hast been, Thou forever shall be. Great is thy faithfulness, Great is Thy faithfulness, Morning by morning new mercies I see; All I have needed Thy hand hath provided! Great is Thy Faithfulness, Lord unto me. Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth, Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide, Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow – Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside. Turn Your Eyes - Natalie GrantClick To Watch Video O soul are you weary and troubled, No light in the darkness you see; But just one look at the Savior Is life more abundant and free. So just look up, your help is on the way. Turn, turn your eyes upon Jesus; Look full, look full, look full in His wonderful face; And the things of earth will grow strangely dim, When you turn, turn your eyes upon him. His Word forever unfailing, His promise an anchor to hold; Here in the midst of your sorrow, His presence is healing your soul. So just look up, your help is on the way! In the light of his glory and grace, There is freedom, healing filling this place. In the light of his glory and grace, There’s revival, it’s stirring, shaking this place. In the light of his glory and grace, Hear the chains hit the ground all over this place “Now, therefore, thus says the LORD of Hosts: Consider your ways. You have sown much, and harvested little. You eat, but never have enough; You drink, but never have your fill. You clothe yourselves, but no one is warm. And He who earns wages, Does so to put them into a bag with holes!” Haggai 1:5-6 Give Me Jesus - Fernando OrtegaClick To Watch Video In the Morning when I rise; In the morning when I rise. In the morning when I rise, Give me Jesus! Give Me Jesus. Give me Jesus. You can have all this world, just give me Jesus! And when I am alone; Oh, when I am alone; And when I am alone, Give me Jesus. And when I come to die; oh, when I come to die; When I come to die, Give me Jesus! VITAL SIGN August 16, 2026 Diagnosis of our failure to … THRIVE! Week 1, The Confusion Of IDENTITY! John 15:5; Haggai 1:5-6 Slide #1 John 10:10 Slide #2 Matthew 13:1-9 Slide #3 Haggai 1:5-6 Slide #4 Failure to Thrive: “growth faltering”—is when a person does not grow, gain weight, or develop at the normal rate for their age. Slide #5 John 15:5 Slide #6 Mark 8:35-37 Slide #7 Reclaim Your Identity In Jesus and Thrive - Declare Jesus as the Vine of complete provision. - Declare your absolute dependence as a branch connected to Jesus. - Admit any confusion you encounter with an imposter identity. - Use storms to strengthen your identity clarity as a branch connected to the Vine. - Discover your Thriving Identity in the revelation of Scripture. This Sunday’s Worship Songs:Hosanna (Praise Is Rising)Battle BelongsJesus At The Center

Rich Milliken

Lead Minister

July 21, 2026 • 6 Minute Read
Sunday, July 26, 2026
SERMON NOTES FOR SUNDAY, JULY 26, 2026 Prepare your heart for this Sunday’s morning message by reading the below Family Discipleship Plan, Discussion Questions & Action Steps, Sermon Slides & Songs. Family Study Page Acts 2:36-47 July 26, 2026 VISIONS & DREAMS - Ushered into new movements of God. An Old Testament prophecy of Joel (Joel 2) spoke a message of HOPE to a beleaguered remnant of people in Jerusalem. Things didn’t look good after the invasion of Judah by Babylon and the exile of Jerusalem’s leadership and prominent citizens to the region of Babylon (current country of Iraq). It seemed like the Glory was gone. The consequences of years of sinfulness and His words fuel a fire of anticipation for a movement of God that would usher in a new day of ordinary people who are receiving Visons and Dreams for repentance and revival as God begins a new thing. It seems that God often begins new seasons of life and purpose for his people through an eruption of Visions and Dreams that reveal sin, call for repentance, spark hope, unites people, and inspires new stewardship of resources for what God is preparing to do. As Kingsway Christian Church prepares for a celebration of it’s 40th Anniversary, it is appropriate that we recall the Visions and Dreams that God was stirring 40 years ago. In the hearts and minds of some extraordinary people, God moved to rally and commit themselves to a courageous and new spiritual movement in West Omaha. This series will celebrate the Visions and Dreams that God was stirring in the Charter members 40+ years ago. Over these weeks we will assess what God has done over the 40 years past, and stir within us fresh VISIONS & DREAMS for the new things He wants to do through you and Kingsway. Discussion Questions and Action Steps for you and your family With your family or a group of friends, tell about a time when you “called on the name of the LORD” in your early part of your faith story? Read Acts 2:14-41. What do these verses teach you about the early disciples experience of visions and dreams from God? What insight or phrase captured your attention? Why? What do you discover about God/Jesus? What do you discover about humans/yourself? How does Acts 2 fulfill events that that were predicted in Joel 2? How are you responding to God’s revelation in the Bible? Is your spirit more skeptical or submissive to the new things as God sparks new Visions and Dreams? Tell someone this week about how God’s revelation gives you peace and purpose! Praise - Elevation WorshipWatch Video Here Let everything that has breath Praise the Lord! Oh, my soul! I’ll praise in the valley; Praise on the mountain; I’ll praise when I’m sure, Praise when I’m doubting. I’ll praise when outnumbered; Praise when surrounded; Cause praise is the waters My enemies drown in! As long as I’m breathing I’ve got a reason to Praise the Lord! Oh my soul! I’ll praise when I feel it, I’ll praise when I don’t; I’ll praise cause I know You’re still in control; My praise is a weapon, It’s more than a sound; My praise is the shout That brings Jericho down! Praise the Lord Oh my soul! Praise the Lord Oh my soul! I won’t be quiet My God is alive How could I keep it inside Praise the Lord oh my soul I’ll praise cause You’re sovereign Praise cause You reign; Praise cause You rose and defeated the grave; I’ll praise cause You’re faithful Praise cause You’re true; Praise cause there’s nobody greater than You! “And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh; Your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, Your old men shall dream dreams, and your young men shall see visions.” Joel 2:28 Spirit Of The Living God - Daniel Iverson Spirit of the Living God, Fall afresh on me, Spirit of the Living God, Fall afresh on me. Melt me, mold me, Fill me, use me. Spirit of the Living God, Fall afresh on me.Click To Watch Video Open My Eyes That I May See - Clara Scott Open my eyes that I may see glimpses of truth You have for me; Place in my hands the wonderful Key that shall unclasp and set me free. Silently now, I wait for You, ready my God Your will to do. Open my eyes, illumine me, Spirit Divine.Click To Watch Video Turn Your Eyes - Natalie GrantClick To Watch Video O soul are you weary and troubled, No light in the darkness you see; But just one look at the Savior Is life more abundant and free. So just look up, your help is on the way. Turn, turn your eyes upon Jesus; Look full, look full, look full in His wonderful face; And the things of earth will grow strangely dim, When you turn, turn your eyes upon him. His Word forever unfailing, His promise an anchor to hold; Here in the midst of your sorrow, His presence is healing your soul. So just look up, your help is on the way! In the light of his glory and grace, There is freedom, healing filling this place. In the light of his glory and grace, There’s revival, it’s stirring, shaking this place. In the light of his glory and grace, Hear the chains hit the ground all over this place “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. How then will they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in Him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching? And how are they to preach unless they are sent. As it is written, “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news!” Romans 10:13-15 NEW WINE - HillSongClick To Watch Video In the crushing, In the pressing, You are making new wine. In the soil I now surrender You are breaking new ground. So I yield to You and to Your careful hand; When I trust You I don’t need to understand Make me Your vessel; Make me an offering; Make me whatever You want me to be. I came here with nothing, But all You have given me Jesus bring new wine out of me. In the crushing, In the pressing, You are making new wine; In the soil I now surrender You are breaking new ground. Where there is new wine There is new power, There is new freedom; The Kingdom is here, I lay down my old flames, To carry Your new fire today. VISIONS & DREAMS! July 26, 2026 Ushered into New Movements of God. Week 2, Align with a God-sized Vision! Acts 2:14-24, 36-41 Slide #1 Joel 2:28-32 Slide #2 Matthew 16:16-18 Slide #3 Acts 2:14-24 Slide #4 Acts 2:36-41 Slide #5 Matthew 28:19-20 Slide #6 Jude 17-25 Slide #7 Acts 11:19-21 This Sunday’s Worship Songs:Here I Am To WorshipTurn Your Eyes Upon Jesus

Rich Milliken

Lead Minister