Life is perilous. Every day we face dangers. Some we can predict and prepare for; others hit us unaware. Fortunately, Scripture teaches God is our rock, refuge, helper, and defender. He directs us in a way that protects us. His directions may come in the clear form of moral teaching or the curious niggling of our conscience. We do well to listen for his voice and heed his direction. The second chapter in Matthew shows the diverse paths of Herod, the Magi, and Jesus's family. The former lives by his own jealous creed. The latter two follow God's direction and experience his protection. Which path will you take?

God looks at our hearts. Whether we like it or not, he searches our deepest, darkest, most depraved self. What the psalmist models at the end of 139 is concession, granting access to God to do his deep work. After expressing anger over evil in the world, he invites God to try his mind, test his heart, and lead him into a better way of life. We all need God's careful inspection of our interior life. He searches us in solitude. He cleanses us in confession. This sermon will highlight these disciplines as our response to God's incisive work.

Evil exists in our world. If we're not careful, we'll feed it or fall into its trap. Fortunately, the apostle Paul describes a posture, perspective, and protection available to us as we battle spiritual powers. And, when in doubt, we can pray: it is the bottom line weapon in apprehending God's protection over us.

Sometimes we can buy knock off brands and generic products. They're close enough to the real thing that we'll gladly accept them. But no one likes a cheap imitation. RC Cola can't rival Coke. Rose Art can't copy Crayola. In Ephesians, the apostle Paul calls us to imitate Jesus. He's the real thing. We can imitate him by living a life of purity, mission, and wisdom. Without these attributes or the aid of His Spirit, our lives are a cheap imitation.

We all want to experience renewal in certain areas of our lives: physical health, financial freedom, flourishing relationships, academics, career, and overcoming old temptations. Unfortunately, change does not happen by pure determination. Renewal requires a plan. The apostle Paul lays this out in Ephesians 4:17-32. To experience renewal, we must replace our stinkin' thinkin' and stay focused on God; we must replace corrupting habits with Christlike ones. Fortunately, God's Spirit helps us in this change process.