Bell Shoals Church

Hard times are unavoidable—but they are never meaningless.In this message from James 1:1–18, we begin a new teaching series through the book of James by addressing a question every believer eventually faces: How do we endure when life gets hard? Drawing from both Scripture and real-life stories, this sermon reminds us that God uses trials to produce endurance—and endurance to form maturity in us.James writes to believers who were scattered and suffering under persecution, yet he opens with a surprising command: “Consider it a great joy” when trials come. Not because pain is good—but because God is at work through it. Endurance, or grit, is essential not only for life but for spiritual growth. Following Jesus is a marathon, not a sprint.In this message, we explore how God develops endurance in us and why perspective and faith are critical when hardship comes. We also see how wisdom from God, eternal hope, and trust in His provision anchor us when circumstances feel overwhelming.✔ Why trials are inevitable—and purposeful✔ How endurance shapes spiritual maturity✔ Where to find wisdom when life feels confusing✔ Why faith and perspective matter in suffering✔ How eternal hope sustains us through painWhether you’re walking through grief, uncertainty, loss, or opposition, this message offers biblical encouragement and practical hope rooted in God’s promises.💬 Let’s Connect:Website → https://bellshoals.comInstagram → /bellshoalsFacebook → /bellshoalsYouTube → /@bellshoalschurch🕊️ Get Involved:We want you to know God, find community, and make a difference.Learn more about serving, missions, next steps, and upcoming events athttps://bellshoals.com/guide/📍 Locations:Multiple campuses across the West-Central Florida area — find one near you!https://bellshoals.com/locations/

We’re all familiar with the thrill of the hunt—searching for something valuable, meaningful, or life-changing. Whether it’s a hidden treasure, a priceless discovery, or a long-sought answer, the pursuit reveals what we value most. In this message from Matthew 13:44–46, Jesus tells two short parables that reveal the greatest treasure of all—the Kingdom of Heaven—and why nothing compares to it.In the parable of the hidden treasure and the pearl of great value, we see two different paths to discovery. One man stumbles upon the treasure unexpectedly, while another spends his life searching for it. Though their journeys differ, their response is the same: overwhelming joy and a willingness to give up everything else to gain what they’ve found.This sermon reminds us that the treasure Jesus offers isn’t merely eternal life someday—it’s His reign, rule, and saving work in our lives right now. When we truly see the value of Christ, it changes how we live, what we pursue, and what we’re willing to release. The issue isn’t what we give up—it’s the greatness of what we gain.As we begin a new year, this message challenges us to take an honest inventory of our hearts. What do our schedules reveal about our priorities? What do our finances say about what we treasure? And most importantly—have we truly seen the incomparable worth of Jesus Christ?✔ How people discover Jesus in different ways✔ Why Christ is worth more than anything else✔ What a transformed response to the gospel looks like✔ How joy naturally flows from treasuring Christ✔ Why 2026 is an opportunity to realign our prioritiesWhether you’re seeking, stumbling, or standing at a crossroads, this message invites you to see Jesus for who He truly is—the greatest treasure imaginable.💬 Let’s Connect:Website → https://bellshoals.comInstagram → /bellshoalsFacebook → /bellshoalsYouTube → /@bellshoalschurch🕊️ Get Involved:We want you to know God, find community, and make a difference.Learn more about serving, missions, next steps, and upcoming events athttps://bellshoals.com/guide/📍 Locations:Multiple campuses across the West-Central Florida area — find one near you!https://bellshoals.com/locations/

In every season of life—especially around Christmas—memories shape us. For some, this season is filled with joy, tradition, and celebration. For others, it carries loss, disappointment, tension, or uncertainty. In moments like these, what we remember—and what we forget—matters more than we realize.In this message from Joshua 4, we step into a defining moment in Israel’s story as God leads His people across the Jordan River into the Promised Land. After generations of waiting, wandering, failure, and God’s relentless faithfulness, Israel finally arrives. But before moving forward, God commands them to stop and build a memorial—tangible reminders of His power, provision, and presence.This message shows us why remembering God’s work isn’t optional—it’s essential. What we don’t intentionally remember, we eventually forget. And when we forget, fear, doubt, and discouragement quickly take over. But when we mark what God has done in the past, it becomes our confidence for whatever lies ahead.From the stones set up at the Jordan, to the cross and the empty tomb, Scripture is filled with reminders that God is faithful, even when His people are not. These memorials become anchor points—breadcrumbs that lead us back when we feel lost, afraid, or unsure of the next step.This sermon also celebrates how God is still at work today—changing lives, building faith in the next generation, and using ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things for His kingdom.✔ Why intentional remembrance strengthens faith✔ How God’s work in us is meant to speak to others✔ Why memorials become confidence for the future✔ How God’s faithfulness carries us through every season✔ Why the cross and empty tomb are the ultimate memorial stonesIf you find yourself looking back with gratitude—or forward with uncertainty—this message will remind you that God’s past faithfulness is proof you can trust Him with what’s next.💬 Let’s Connect:Website → https://bellshoals.comInstagram → /bellshoalsFacebook → /bellshoalsYouTube → /@bellshoalschurch🕊️ Get Involved:We want you to know God, find community, and make a difference.Learn more about serving, missions, next steps, and upcoming events athttps://bellshoals.com/guide/📍 Locations:Multiple campuses across the West-Central Florida area — find one near you!https://bellshoals.com/locations/

Light in the Darkness | Christmas Eve ServiceIn this Christmas Eve message, Light in the Darkness, we reflect on the timeless contrast between light and darkness—seen from the very beginning of creation to the birth of Jesus, the Light of the World. From Genesis to Revelation, Scripture reveals that even the smallest light pierces the deepest darkness.The Bible uses this image to describe: Nations walking through dark seasons, Personal struggles and, weary hearts. And most importantly, our spiritual reality apart from God. The core problem of the world isn’t just hardship—it’s the rejection of God and His ways, which leads to brokenness. But because of His great love, God sent His Son to shine light into our spiritual darkness and make a way for salvation.Jesus declares, “I am the light of the world.” His light cannot be overcome, and when we turn to Him, we move from darkness to light, from death to life, and from despair to lasting hope.This Christmas Eve message invites you to reflect, respond, and rejoice in the truth that:The darkness has not won The Light has comeAnd our future is brighter because of Jesus If you’re walking through a difficult season or searching for hope this Christmas, this message is for you.🎄 Key Themes:✔ Light overcoming darkness✔ Jesus as the Light of the World✔ Salvation found by turning to the light✔ Hope for today and eternity✔ A future illuminated by God’s glory💬 Let’s Connect:Website → https://bellshoals.comInstagram → /bellshoalsFacebook → /bellshoalsYouTube → /@bellshoalschurch🕊️ Get Involved: We want you to know God, find community, and make a difference.Learn more about serving, next steps, missions, and events at:https://bellshoals.com/guide/📍 Locations: Multiple campuses across West-Central FloridaFind a location near you → https://bellshoals.com/locations/

In a world marked by uncertainty, fear, and hardship, hope can feel fragile—or even unrealistic. But in this Advent message, Pastor Corey walks through 1 Peter 1 and Isaiah 7 to show that the hope God offers is not wishful thinking or blind optimism—it’s stubborn, resilient, and secure.From Winston Churchill’s refusal to surrender during World War II to King Ahaz trembling before overwhelming enemies, Scripture reminds us that true hope is not rooted in circumstances, but in confidence. When Judah faced invasion and fear gripped the nation, God gave a sign that pointed far beyond the moment—a promise of Immanuel, God with us.This message reveals how the birth of Jesus is a hope that holds—not just for Israel then, but for believers now. While hope killers like past pain, uncertainty about the future, health struggles, broken relationships, or financial pressure can leave hearts weary, God offers a living hope grounded in His faithfulness and proven track record throughout history.Biblical hope isn’t passive—it’s a confident expectation anchored in who God is and what He has already done. Because of the resurrection of Jesus, our hope is alive, secure, and eternal.If you’re feeling overwhelmed, discouraged, or worn down by life, this message will remind you where lasting hope is found—and why it never fails.✔ Why Christian hope is confident, not circumstantial✔ How God’s faithfulness in the past fuels hope for the future✔ Why Jesus is the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promises✔ How to hold onto hope in seasons of hardship✔ Why setting your hope on Christ leads to sustained enduranceShare this message with someone who needs to be reminded that no matter how dark things feel, our hope is alive—and it holds.💬 Let’s Connect:Website → https://bellshoals.comInstagram → /bellshoalsFacebook → /bellshoalsYouTube → /@bellshoalschurch🕊️ Get Involved:We want you to know God, find community, and make a difference.Learn more about serving, missions, next steps, and upcoming events athttps://bellshoals.com/guide/📍 Locations:Multiple campuses across the West-Central Florida area — find one near you!https://bellshoals.com/locations/

In a world filled with noise, interruptions, and uncertainty, peace can feel out of reach. But in this Advent message, Pastor Corey walks through John 14:27, Philippians 4:6–9, and Isaiah 26 to show that the peace Jesus offers is not circumstantial or fragile—it’s supernatural, steady, and unshakable.From anxious disciples caught in a storm to God’s people facing the threat of Assyria, Scripture reveals that peace isn’t the absence of conflict—it’s the presence of trust. While worry rises when outcomes are uncertain, Jesus gives a peace that persists even when the future feels unclear.Through powerful biblical truth and moving stories like Horatio Spafford’s hymn “It Is Well with My Soul,” this message reminds us that peace isn’t found in a place or a plan—it’s found in a Person. Jesus, the Prince of Peace, steadies us in the present and secures us for the future.If your mind feels consumed by worry, anxiety, or chaos, this message will help you see how God’s peace can guard your heart and mind—even when circumstances don’t change.✔ Why peace is the antidote to chaos✔ Why the opposite of peace isn’t war—but worry✔ How Jesus gives peace when outcomes are uncertain✔ Why peace increases as we know the Peace-Giver✔ How supernatural peace can exist even in deep sorrowShare this message with someone who needs to be reminded that no matter what they’re facing, God’s peace is still available—and it is well with their soul.💬 Let’s Connect:Website → https://bellshoals.comInstagram → /bellshoalsFacebook → /bellshoalsYouTube → /@bellshoalschurch🕊️ Get Involved:We want you to know God, find community, and make a difference.Learn more about serving, missions, next steps, and upcoming events athttps://bellshoals.com/guide/📍 Locations:Multiple campuses across the West-Central Florida area — find one near you!https://bellshoals.com/locations/

When life feels heavy or uncertain, joy can seem distant. But in this week’s Advent message, Pastor Corey shows from John 16:16–22 and Matthew 2:11 that Jesus offers a joy that isn’t fragile, temporary, or tied to circumstances. It’s a durable delight—rooted in God, generated by the Spirit, and strong enough to rise even in seasons of sorrow.From the wise men who were overwhelmed with joy at the sight of Jesus, to the disciples who learned that their grief would one day give way to rejoicing, Scripture reveals a God who transforms setbacks into victory. Just like Lasse Viren’s legendary Olympic comeback, what looks like disaster in our lives often becomes the very place where God displays His glory.If you’re facing discouragement, disappointment, or a season of waiting, this message helps you see how Christian joy doesn’t ignore pain—it outlasts it.✔ Why joy is inevitable for those who walk with Jesus✔ How joy becomes unconditional, even when suffering remains✔ Why Christian joy can co-exist with sorrow✔ How God uses trials to produce deeper joy in us✔ Why our future with Christ makes joy eternal and secureShare this with someone who needs to be reminded that sorrow doesn’t have the final word—joy does.💬 Let’s Connect:Website → https://bellshoals.comInstagram → /bellshoalsFacebook → /bellshoalsYouTube → /@bellshoalschurch🕊️ Get Involved:We want you to know God, find community, and make a difference.Learn more about serving, missions, next steps, and upcoming events at https://bellshoals.com/guide/📍 Locations:Multiple campuses across the West-Central Florida area — find one near you! https://bellshoals.com/locations/

Begin this Advent season by reflecting on the steadfast and transformative love of God. In this message, Pastor Corey walks through 1 John 4:7–10 and explains how God’s love is not simply something we acknowledge, but something we can rely on through every circumstance of life.Through the arrival of Jesus, God reveals a love that is intentional, sacrificial, and secure. This message helps us see why God’s love is the foundation for confidence, peace, and trust—especially when life feels uncertain or difficult.If you’ve wrestled with fear, doubt, anxiety, or questions about God’s care, this message offers clarity and encouragement.✔ Why God is the true source of love✔ How Jesus’ atoning work demonstrates God’s commitment to us✔ Why God’s love is based on His character—not our performance✔ How understanding God’s love helps reduce fear and worry✔ Why we can trust God’s goodness even when circumstances are challengingShare this with someone who could use a thoughtful reminder of God’s steady and reliable love.💬 Let’s Connect:Website → https://bellshoals.comInstagram → https://www.instagram.com/bellshoals/Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/BellShoals/YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@BellShoalsChurch🕊️ Get Involved:We want you to know God, find community, and make a difference.Learn more about serving, missions, next steps, and upcoming events at https://bellshoals.com/guide/📍 Locations:Multiple campuses across the West-Central Florida area — find one near you! https://bellshoals.com/locations/

Discover the powerful and emotional final chapter of King David’s life—his failures, his family’s unraveling, and the hope God still extends in the middle of brokenness. In this message, Pastor Corey Abney walks through the story of Amnon, Tamar, and Absalom, and shows how unaddressed sin, wounded relationships, and passive leadership can devastate a family. But more importantly, you’ll learn why God’s design is best, and how His grace can redeem any story—no matter how far it’s gone.If you’ve ever wrestled with family conflict, past mistakes, bitterness, identity, or the consequences of sin, this message will speak directly to your heart.✔ Why David’s passivity led to generational pain✔ How unaddressed sin becomes unleashed sin✔ Why God’s design for marriage, purity, identity, and family leads to blessing✔ How to return to God’s will—no matter your past✔ What the life of David teaches us about leadership, repentance, and hopeDon’t watch this alone—share it with someone who needs encouragement today.💬 Let’s Connect:Website → https://bellshoals.comInstagram → https://www.instagram.com/bellshoals/Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/BellShoals/YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@BellShoalsChurch🕊️ Get Involved:We want you to know God, find community, and change the world!Learn more about serving, missions, next steps, and upcoming events at https://bellshoals.com/guide/📍 Locations: Multiple campuses across the West-Central Florida area — find one near you! https://bellshoals.com/locations/

Have you ever faced a challenge that felt impossible — a situation so overwhelming that fear seemed louder than your faith? In this message, Pastor Steven Staton walks us through 1 Samuel 17 and reminds us that the story of David and Goliath is not ultimately about our strength, our courage, or “facing our giants.” It’s about God’s glory, God’s power, and God’s Champion.While Israel trembled before Goliath, God raised up an unlikely deliverer in David — a shepherd boy armed not with skill or size, but with confidence in the Lord. Yet this moment points to something far greater: Jesus, the true and better David, who stepped onto the battlefield of sin and death and won the victory we never could.This message will challenge and encourage you to shift your focus from the size of your battles to the greatness of your God. You’ll discover why we don’t fight for victory but from victory — because our Champion has already won.Key Scriptures:1 Samuel 17Colossians 2:13–151 John 4:4Watch, reflect, and share:• Desire God’s glory above everything else.• Trust God’s power over every challenge.• Look to Jesus — the ultimate Champion who never leaves you.💬 Let’s Connect:Website → https://bellshoals.comInstagram → @bellshoalsFacebook → /bellshoalsYouTube → @bellshoalschurch🕊️ Get Involved:We want you to know God, find community, and change the world!Learn more about serving, missions, next steps, and upcoming events → https://bellshoals.com/guide/📍 Locations:Multiple campuses across the West-Central Florida area — find one near you!https://bellshoals.com/locations/

Have you ever felt like God was silent, or that your waiting season had no purpose? In this message, Pastor Steven Staton reminds us that God’s silence never means His absence. Through the story of David’s anointing in 1 Samuel 16, we discover that God is always working — even in the waiting.Before David ever held a crown, he learned faithfulness in the pasture. While others overlooked him, God was shaping his heart to lead His people. In the same way, God uses our seasons of obscurity, monotony, and preparation to form in us the character needed for what’s next.This message will challenge and encourage you to stay faithful where you are, to trust God’s timing, and to worship while you wait. The pasture may feel hidden, but it’s where God does His best work.Key Scriptures:1 Samuel 16:1–13Psalm 13Romans 5:3–4Main Takeaway:Don’t mistake God’s silence for His absence — He is working in your waiting.Watch, reflect, and share:God chooses the unlikely to accomplish His purposes.Character is greater than charisma.Faithfulness in small things prepares you for greater things.Learn more about the Real Hope Christmas Party outreach at bellshoals.com/realhopechristmas.

Title: The Greatest Ability is Availability | Matthew 9:35–38Have you ever wondered what’s really holding us back from reaching the world for Christ? In this message, Pastor Corey reminds us that the greatest hindrance isn’t a lack of opportunity—it’s a lack of availability.From Jesus’ compassion for the crowds in Matthew 9 to His call for more workers in the harvest, this passage challenges us to trust that God’s plan for our lives is not just good—it’s the best. God continues to call ordinary people to do extraordinary things when they simply make themselves available.Through powerful stories and practical application, this message will encourage you to pray, to go, and to support the mission of God both locally and globally. The harvest is plentiful. The question is—are we available?Key Scriptures:Matthew 9:35–38Romans 10:13–15Main Takeaway:The greatest hindrance to reaching the world is not a lack of opportunity, but a lack of availability.Watch, reflect, and share:God’s plan for your life is always best.The greatest ability is availability.Pray for God to raise up workers for His harvest.

In this message, Pastor Corey unpacks The Power of the Gospel through Paul’s ministry in Ephesus. The Gospel of Jesus Christ is more than words — it’s a movement that transforms lives, disrupts darkness, and reveals truth in a world full of counterfeits.From miraculous healings to the unforgettable story of the seven sons of Sceva, Acts 19 shows that when the true Gospel moves, it exposes deception and brings lasting transformation.Key Points:The Gospel is Disruptive — It shakes the enemy’s strongholds and turns the world upside down (Acts 19:8–12; Acts 17:5–6).The Enemy is Deceptive — He counterfeits what is genuine, but truth always exposes the lie (Acts 19:13–16; 2 Tim. 3:13–14).The Truth is Transforming — Confession, repentance, and renewal always follow the true move of God (Acts 19:17–20).When people truly encounter Jesus, lives are changed, idols are burned, and His Word prevails.Scripture: Acts 19:8–20

God delights in using ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary things. In this message, we look at the story of Peter and John in Acts 3–4, where two fishermen become bold witnesses for Christ through the power of the Holy Spirit.You’ll discover:-How God used a simple act of compassion to open the door for the gospel-Why true power comes from the name of Jesus, not human ability-How Peter and John displayed courage in the face of opposition-What it means to live as an ordinary person filled with extraordinary purpose-How God turns spectators into servants and audiences into armiesThrough the healing of a crippled man and the bold testimony that followed, we’re reminded that God still works through those who make themselves available. Our skills, experiences, and everyday moments can become tools in His hands to reach the world for Christ.Key Scripture: Acts 3–4Theme: God uses ordinary people in extraordinary waysTakeaway: God doesn’t call the qualified—He qualifies the called.

Listening is one of the most important skills in life—and in faith. In this message, we explore Jesus’ Parable of the Soils from Matthew 13:1–9, 18–23 and discover how the condition of our hearts determines how we receive and respond to God’s Word.You’ll discover:-Why some hearts resist truth while others receive it-How emotional or shallow faith can fade under pressure-What it means to have a crowded heart filled with distractions-How true faith takes root and produces lasting fruit-Why listening and obeying are both essential for spiritual growthThrough biblical teaching and practical insight, we’ll see that the root of faith always produces the fruit of faith. God calls us not only to hear His Word but to live it out—bearing fruit that reflects His work in us and sharing His truth with others.Key Scripture: Matthew 13:1–9; 18–23Theme: The root of faith always produces the fruit of faithTakeaway: True hearing leads to doing—and doing leads to growth.Subscribe for more messages of truth and encouragement.

Parenting is one of life’s greatest joys—and biggest challenges. Whether you’re raising young kids, guiding teens, or encouraging grandchildren, the Bible offers timeless wisdom for every season of family life.In this message, we look at Paul’s teaching in Colossians 3:20–21 about how godly families reflect the Fatherhood of God.You’ll discover:Why obedience and honor matter in a child’s spiritual growthHow fathers and parents can encourage rather than exasperateThe power of words that build up instead of tear downWhy laughter, fun, and relationship are essential to family healthHow parenting moves from rules to reason to relationshipHow godly parenting is reassuring, relational, and redemptiveThrough biblical teaching, practical insight, and real-life stories, we’ll see how God calls us to create homes filled with love, encouragement, and grace—where children know they are deeply believed in and deeply loved.Key Scripture: Colossians 3:20–21Theme: Godly parenting reflects the Fatherhood of GodTakeaway: Build up your family with faith, fun, and forgiveness.Subscribe for more messages of truth and encouragement

Controlling Your Talk and Your Walk | Colossians 4:2–6Speech matters. The words we use—how we talk to God and how we talk to people—shape the way others see Christ in us. In this message from Colossians 4:2–6, Paul gives final instructions to the church, reminding us that both our prayers and our conversations carry eternal weight.Together we’ll see:- Why prayer is the starting point of all our speech- What it means to pray with devotion, watchfulness, and thanksgiving- How Paul’s example teaches us to pray for opportunities to share the gospel- Why our walk (daily conduct) gives credibility to our words- How gracious, truthful, and “seasoned with salt” speech reflects Christ to the worldWhether you’re a longtime believer or just exploring faith, this passage challenges us to honor Christ not only with what we say but also with how we live. Our lives and our lips together proclaim the good news of Jesus.Key Scriptures:- Colossians 4:2–6- Romans 1:16- Matthew 5:16

A New Marriage | Colossians 3:17–19Marriage is one of the greatest blessings—and greatest challenges—of life. In this message, we walk through Paul’s words in Colossians 3:17–19 and see how the gospel transforms the way husbands and wives relate to one another.From Adam and Eve’s mistakes in the garden to the radical course corrections offered in the New Testament, we’ll explore:Why marriage can be so difficult at timesHow sin brings dysfunction into our roles as husbands and wivesWhat it truly means for wives to submit and husbands to lead with loveHow Jesus restores dignity, respect, and equality within marriageWhether you’re married, preparing for marriage, or simply curious about what God says about it, this passage reminds us that marriage is more than a human contract—it’s a picture of God’s love and leadership.Key Scriptures:Colossians 3:17–19Genesis 3:8–161 Peter 3:7, 1 Peter 4:8Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more biblical teaching that applies to everyday life.#Marriage #Colossians #Sermon #ChristianLiving #BibleTeaching

Passage: John 11:1–27Where is God when life feels like a pressure cooker? When the world is filled with chaos, anger, confusion, and pain—it’s natural to ask, “Lord, where are You?” In John 11, we find that even those closest to Jesus wrestled with His timing. Mary and Martha called for Jesus, but He delayed. Lazarus died. Yet in the waiting, God was working.This story shows us that God’s delays are not denials. His love isn’t always measured by immediate action, but by the deeper deliverance He is bringing for His glory and our good. Jesus reveals Himself not just as a miracle worker, but as the Resurrection and the Life—the One who offers unshakable hope in the face of death itself.In this message we’ll see:-Why God’s delay precedes His deliverance.-How His love can’t be judged by present circumstances.-Why saving faith endures when Jesus seems “late.”-How to trust God in the mystery of unanswered prayers.-The hope of resurrection life—both now and forever.Ultimately, our role is obedience; the outcome belongs to Him. And just as Lazarus was raised, everything Jesus did for him, He will one day do for all who believe.

Out with the Old in with the New Passage: Colossians 3:1–17Better living starts with better thinking. In Colossians 3, Paul calls us to lift our minds above the noise—off of earthly distractions and onto Christ who is our life. Real change doesn’t come from willpower or man-made rules, but from being united to Jesus, putting the old self to death, and putting on a new way of life.The gospel gives us a new identity—hidden with Christ now and revealed with Him in glory. From that identity flows a new mindset and a new wardrobe: compassion, kindness, humility, patience, forgiveness, and love. As the word of Christ dwells richly in us, His peace rules our hearts—even when circumstances don’t.In this message we’ll see:* Why transformation begins in the mind: “set your minds on things above.”* What it means to put to death the old self and not keep sin as a “pet.”* How the new self is being renewed—growth as a Spirit-powered process.* Why the church has no second-class citizens: Christ is “all and in all.”* How to put on Christlike virtues and let His peace umpire our hearts.* Why true holiness is a supernaturally changed heart, not mere moral restraint.Ultimately, the call is to do everything in the name of Jesus—killing sin, putting on Christ, and letting His word and peace shape our homes, our church, and our everyday lives.