This sermon continues the series A Heart for the Word. It asks a vital question. What voices are shaping our lives? Every day, we absorb messages from news, social media, culture, and relationships. Therefore, shaping is unavoidable. The real issue is what voice we allow to lead.

As followers of Jesus, we believe God is forming us into Christ’s likeness. He does this through the Holy Spirit and Scripture. God’s Word becomes the blueprint for faithful living. Just as a team needs fundamentals to succeed, believers need Scripture to grow.

The sermon reminds us that access to Scripture is not enough. Information alone does not transform the heart. Formation requires willingness. Being taught by God’s Word means submitting to it. That posture is often uncomfortable. Scripture sometimes affirms us. However, it also confronts us.

Many of us read Scripture for validation. We prefer verses that confirm what we already believe. Yet God invites us to more, He calls us to place ourselves under Scripture’s authority. Teaching implies change. Therefore, humility becomes essential.

Paul’s letter to Timothy anchors the message. Paul urges Timothy to continue in what he has learned. The word “continue” means to abide. It means to remain deeply rooted. Scripture was not just Timothy’s education. It was his formation.

The sermon then turns to Proverbs. Wisdom begins with reverent humility before God. A heart taught by the Word recognizes its limits. It approaches Scripture with openness and trust. This posture allows God to teach, correct, and shape.

The message emphasizes remembering God’s mighty acts. Scripture reminds us who God is and what He has done. It also helps us notice how God works in our lives today. This remembrance fuels reverence and obedience.

Practical steps close the sermon. Return to Scripture daily. Focus on attentiveness, not volume. Pray for humility and openness. Notice where God has acted. Then take one faithful step. Growth happens over time, not instantly.

Finally, the sermon calls believers to choose wisely. Many voices compete for influence. Yet God’s Word offers life, wisdom, and transformation. A heart taught by the Word listens, submits, and follows. Through Scripture, God shapes us from the inside out.

*summary created with help of ChatGPT