Throwback Thursday | September 1st, 2013 | Like and subscribe!

Main message: Jesus' healing in Matthew 12 shows God's power to remove spiritual uncleanness; the pastor urges listeners to "get off the treadmill" of busy, misguided priorities, make themselves available to God, and allow Him to cleanse and redirect their lives for faithful service.

Key points:

• Matthew 12:22 (Jesus casting out a demon from a blind and mute man) illustrates that spiritual oppression can be removed, but not every illness is demon-caused.
• God sometimes blesses the intent of our decisions before we act — being willing and available to Him matters.
• Personal testimony: the pastor took a 90-day sabbatical to stop the unhealthy pace of ministry, received a surprising spiritual/physical experience beforehand, and was refined through the process.
• Medical/psychological insight: a brain scan revealed ADD tendencies; he used diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes (not medication) to manage it and align his life with God’s purposes.
• Grief and loss (his father's death) further clarified priorities: say no more, reduce chaos, serve God intentionally, and choose a different "treadmill" before life passes.

Scriptures mentioned: Matthew 12:22