God Is Not a Vending Machine: Developing a Covenantal Relationship With God (Sort of Christian)

Update: 2025-05-11

Description

Are you treating God like a spiritual vending machine? In this second message of our Sort of Christian series, Pastor Ken explores the difference between a transactional and a relational faith. Learn how to move beyond expecting God to give you what you want and instead develop a deep, meaningful connection based on who God is. Hear personal stories and biblical insights that will challenge your approach to faith, help you understand the trap of a transactional faith, learn to love God for who he is instead of what he does, and discover the beauty of a covenant relationship with God.

Sermon Reflections:

In what ways have you been treating God like a "vending machine" – expecting specific outcomes in exchange for good behavior or prayers?

When have you felt disappointed or betrayed by God when a prayer wasn't answered the way you wanted? How can you reframe that experience?

Can you identify a time when you served God or did something good with an expectation of a specific reward? What does that reveal about your understanding of faith?

How does the concept of a covenantal relationship differ from a transactional contract in your understanding of faith?

Reflect on the statement: "We serve God because of who God is, not for what God might do for us." What challenges or insights does this bring to your personal faith journey?