Reset with Bonnie Sala

06/10/2025

Everyone Matters to Jesus

Then Peter replied, "I see very clearly that God shows no favoritism. In every nation he accepts those who fear him and do what is right. This is the message of Good News ..." (Acts 10:34-36a).

Everyone loves a vacation! Hearing about what one man does on his vacation may surprise you.

Bob is a gentle, friendly looking man. Every year, he takes a vacation at the beach. But he's not there to soak up the sun. For 17 years, Bob has gone to the beach to enjoy conversations with complete strangers, talking with anyone interested in hearing about Jesus. "To Bob, it doesn't matter who the person is, young, old, single, married, what nationality, ethnicity or religious affiliation ... Bob knows that everyone matters to Jesus—that Jesus loves them ... that Jesus died ... to pay for their sin. Bob wants them to receive forgiveness, knowing the love of Jesus for them and wants them to experience new and eternal life with God through Jesus Christ as a son or daughter of God."[1]

Bob beautifully reflects God's heart for every person. When Jesus was on earth His first followers were Jews. So people assumed that, in order to follow Jesus, a person needed to become Jewish and then follow Jesus. But God spoke to one of Jesus's disciples named Peter in a dream, explaining that no one race of people was any better than another—that everyone matters to Him. This is how Peter explained it: "I see very clearly that God shows no favoritism. In every nation he accepts those who fear him and do what is right. This is the message of Good News" (Acts 10:34-36a).

It is like Bob says: you matter to Jesus. Jesus died to pay for your sin, wants to completely forgive you, longs for you to live in His love both now and forever. Because everyone matters to Jesus.

[1] Mission Hills Church 03.23.25 9:30am. YouTube, uploaded by Mission Hills Church, 23 Mar. 2025, https://www.youtube.com/live/e86hYiK0hmA?feature=shared. Accessed 25 Mar. 2025.

Listen at: https://www.guidelines.org/sermons/everyone-matters-to-jesus/

06/09/2025

Think You're Too Young to Be Generous?

For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Matthew 6:21 NIV

What is your heart set on? Getting an education, buying a home or starting a business?

Every morning Lina goes through a stack of photographs that sit on her kitchen table, pausing to pray for each person in the well-worn pictures. She's never met these people, but she's prayed for them for years. The men and women in the photos live all over the world and the goal of each of their lives is to share the message of Jesus's love with their own people.

Lina prays, but she's done more than that. Now widowed and in her late 80s, Lina has decided that there really isn't anything else she needs in life. She has begun to systematically give her remaining money to help the people in the photos share the gospel. It's where her heart is—what her heart beats for. Jesus talked about this very thing. He said, "For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also" (Matthew 6:21 NIV).

"Well, that lady is old," you might think. She's had all the experiences of life, owned things and now she has extra to give away. I'll give ... if I have money left over when I'm old." But you'd be wrong about Lina. For decades, Lina and her husband built their lives around what God says about money and our priorities. When the Bible says, "Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the best part of everything you produce," (Proverbs 3:9) they did just that, year after year. When they read, "Don't love money; be satisfied with what you have. For God has said, 'I will never fail you, I will never abandon you,'" (Hebrews 13:5) they believed it. With all their hearts ... and their resources, year in and year out.

What do the things you treasure tell about where your heart is?

Listen at: https://www.guidelines.org/sermons/think-youre-too-young-to-be-generous/

06/06/2025

Seeing Others (Even Frustrating Ones) Through God's Eyes

Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. Ephesians 4:32

What is wrong with people? Ever spat that out of your mouth in frustration?

It's easy to justify our frustration with others. Daniel prided himself on being hardworking and expected the same from everyone else. "People should give their all," he reasoned to himself. When people didn't do what he thought they should, it was incredibly frustrating to Daniel and he judged them harshly—calling them lazy, inconsiderate, unreliable. One day, he read these words of Jesus: "For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged" (Matthew 7:2). Daniel felt a pang of conviction. That night, his humbled prayer was, "God, I want You to be merciful to me. Help me be more merciful and understanding with others."

For you, maybe it's the rude coworker or careless driver or quirky family member. When it comes to others, God says, "Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you" (Ephesians 4:32). The more we dwell on what irritates us about people, the less room we have for kindness. God made a lot of very different types of people for His world. They're not all going to think or act like me or how I think they should.

What if instead of filling our minds with frustration, we trained them to reflect God's grace? While God is high and holy, the Bible says He lives with humble people (Isaiah 57:15). One wise pastor once wrote, "[God is] saying, 'I dwell in your thoughts. Make your thoughts a sanctuary in which I can dwell.'"[1] If frustration has taken over your thinking, pause and ask: "Do I know their full story?" Instead of, "They're so inconsiderate," consider, "Maybe they're struggling today. God, help me see others with Your love."

[1] A. W. Tozer, compiled by James L. Snyder, Tozer on Worship and Entertainment (Camp Hill, PA: Christian Publications, 1998), 10-11.

Listen at: https://www.guidelines.org/sermons/seeing-others-even-frustrating-ones-through-gods-eyes/

06/05/2025

Rewire Your Brain for Joy

Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Philippians 4:8

"If it bleeds, it leads," is a common phrase in journalism. It points out that bad news is sadly, more interesting than good.

Neuroscientists have found that our brains have a "negativity bias," meaning we naturally focus on problems more than positives. Pessimism often feels like self-protection, but in reality, it trains our minds to expect failure. When we focus on what's wrong, we stop noticing what's right. Lukas had always considered himself a realist. He thought it was wise to anticipate problems. But after years of bracing for the worst, he realized that he barely noticed when things actually did go well. A compliment, a kind gesture, even moments of joy were brushed aside because he had trained himself to see what was missing instead of what was present.

The good news is, we can retrain our minds. Studies show that practicing gratitude rewires the brain, making us more resilient and aware of life's blessings.[1] The Bible tells us that our thoughts shape our lives. It urges, "Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable" (Philippians 4:8). This doesn't mean ignoring hardship, but it does mean intentionally noticing the good.

If negativity has taken over your thinking, try this: For every complaint or worry, challenge yourself to name one thing that's going right. Instead of, "Nothing ever works out for me," say, "God is always working, even when I don't see it."

What would change if you started seeing the good that's already there? Gratitude is how we open the eyes of our hearts to see God at work doing wonderful things right now. This is the only path to discovering a life you love.

[1] Hanson, Rick, and Richard Mendius. Hardwiring Happiness: The New Brain Science of Contentment, Calm, and Confidence. Harmony, 2013.

Listen at:

Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and…

05/30/2025

Can I Really Pray About That?

Don't worry about anything; instead pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Philippians 4:6

A parking place. A scored goal. Getting a bargain. What do they have in common? They're all things you can pray for!

What parent hasn't sat on the sidelines of a sporting event, silently but fervently praying that their child will run in the right direction or do well when the ball comes their way? Can we really pray about things like that—issues that aren't of life-or-death importance? The Bible says, "Yes! Yes, you can, and you should."

Scripture encourages us with these words: "Don't worry about anything; instead pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done" (Philippians 4:6). Backing up that instruction to pray about everything, the Bible gives us stories of people praying to be able to have children (1 Samuel 1) and to find wives (Genesis 24:12-14). We even see people praying for superhuman strength, (Judges 16:28-30) for it to rain, (1 Kings 17,18) and for the sun to stand still (Joshua 10:12-13).

Here are some things we all need, that God specifically welcomes us to ask Him for:

- His will and plan for our lives (1 John 5:14)
- Our daily needs (Matthew 6:11)
- Forgiveness (1 John 1:9)
- Protection (Psalm 91:14-15)
- Physical, spiritual and emotional healing (James 5:14-15, Psalm 147:3)

God welcomes you to talk with Him so specifically in prayer because He cares for you so personally. Jesus said, "... not a single sparrow can fall to the ground without your Father knowing it. And the very hairs on your head are all numbered. So don't be afraid; you are more valuable to God than a whole flock of sparrows" (Matthew 10:29b-31).

When we pray about everything, God explains what the result will be. He says, "Then you will experience God's peace, which exceeds anything we can understand" (Philippians 4:7). So, do you need your bus to be on time today, to have a difficult conversation or to find something you've lost? Start praying!

Listen at: https://www.guidelines.org/sermons/can-i-really-pray-about-that/

05/29/2025

05/29/2025

The Invitation of Boredom: Make the Most of It

Be very careful, then, how you live— not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Ephesians 5:15-16 NIV

When was the last time you were just plain bored?

When her children came to her complaining that they were bored, one wise mom had a list of chores that needed doing, ready for them to pick from. That solved that. How about you? Does boredom drive you into rest and a new purpose or send you spiraling into addictive time wasters?

Boredom used to be a normal part of life. Now, with a device in our hands, we can swipe, scroll, and binge our way past any moment of discomfort. But does that actually leave us feeling more fulfilled? Or just drained? Here's a new thought. Boredom isn't just an empty moment—it's an invitation. It's a signal that something in us is craving engagement, creativity, or deeper connection. It might even be an opportunity for quiet or rest or connection. But instead of responding to that call, many of us numb boredom.

While digital distractions can momentarily alleviate boredom, they often leave us feeling more dissatisfied. Studies have found that frequently switching between short online videos can increase feelings of boredom instead of reducing them.[1] Instead of making us happier, habits like scrolling on our devices just drain us further.

The Bible tells us that we were made for purpose, not for passive consumption of life. "Be very careful, then, how you live" it says, "not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity." (Ephesians 5:15-16) The next time you feel aimless, don't just scroll past it. Take care of yourself—get outside, exercise, rest. Engage in something meaningful—help a neighbor, learn a skill, text a friend. Spend time with God—prayer and scripture turn empty moments into transforming ones.

[1]Tam, Katy Y. Y., and Michael Inzlicht. "Fast-Forward to Boredom: How Switching Behavior on Digital Media Makes People More Bored." Journal of Experimental Psychology: General, vol. 153, no. 10, 2024, pp. 2409–2426. PubMed, https://doi.org/10.1037/xge0001639.

Listen at: https://www.guidelines.org/sermons/the-invitation-of-boredom-make-the-most-of-it/

05/28/2025

Here's What God Says to the Lonely

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28

Loneliness isn't just about being alone. It's about feeling unseen and disconnected.

You can be surrounded by people—on the train, at work, in a crowded city—and still feel isolated. Hiroshi works long hours, always meeting demands, yet he feels like no one truly knows him. Aiko is a young mother who simply feels invisible and longs for connection. Maybe you're feeling like that right now. Perhaps you're carrying unspoken burdens—the pressure to succeed and meet expectations without showing weakness. But what happens when you reach the end of your strength?

True strength isn't never needing help—it's knowing where to turn when the weight is too heavy. Jesus speaks into this weariness. He says, "Come to me, all you who are weary, and I will give you rest." (Matthew 11:28) This isn't just an invitation to believe—it's an invitation to bring your burdens to someone who fully sees and loves you.

Embracing relationship with Jesus transforms our sense of isolation. Through prayer and reading the Bible, we experience a connection that transcends loneliness. Because relationship with Jesus isn't about rituals—it's about actually knowing the God who walks with us. The Bible describes Jesus as the friend who never leaves (Hebrews 13:5), the shepherd who searches for the lost (John 10:11), and the Father who welcomes us home (Luke 15). If you feel isolated, you are not forgotten ... or alone. Scripture says that those who trust in God are like trees planted by water—deeply rooted and flourishing (Psalm 1:3).

Loneliness loses its power when we reach out—to God, and to others. Think you have no one to lean on? Jesus offers rest for the weary, strength for the weak, and love for the lonely.

https://www.guidelines.org/sermons/heres-what-god-says-to-the-lonely/

05/27/2025

The Beautiful Way God Has with Brokenness

To all who mourn in Israel, he will give a crown of beauty for ashes, a joyous blessing instead of mourning, festive praise instead of despair. In their righteousness, they will be like great oaks that the LORD has planted for his own glory. Isaiah 61:3

He lost his mom in a tragic attack. But his response revealed one of the mysteries of God.

Chris was in college when his world was ripped apart by a horrific act of violence. His mother was killed in a racially motivated shooting as she worshipped in church. Chris says, "I had to tell the news to my little brother ... to my little sister. Our lives would never be the same."[1] But Chris didn't respond with anger. He publicly chose forgiveness, declaring, "Love is stronger than hate." Now a motivational speaker and author, Chris uses his faith in Christ to spread a message of unity, resilience, and racial reconciliation, turning the brokenness and deep pain into a powerful testimony of love and healing.

How does good ever come from violence, broken relationships, abuse or war? This is one of the most marvelous mysteries of God—He isn't limited by the brokenness we experience. He doesn't need perfect beginnings to create wonderful endings. God steps right into our mess, into the pain, the regret, the failure, and He redeems it. The Bible says He gives crowns of beauty for ashes (Isaiah 61:3).

Today, you have an invitation to bring the brokenness of your life to God—everything that's happened to you: the parts of your story you're not proud of, the wounds that seem too deep to heal. God isn't the author of the pain in our lives—pain comes from human sin and our broken world. But God is the author of hope and the redeemer of broken things. He declares: "I will restore to you the years that the locust has eaten" (Joel 2:25). He's inviting you to trust Him, to place your broken pieces in His hands and watch as He creates beauty.

[1] Chris Singleton on Faith, Race, and Forgiveness. YouTube, uploaded by BJU Today, 9 Oct. 2020, https://youtu.be/b9-FXEj4avM. Accessed 11 Mar. 2025.

Listen at: https://www.guidelines.org/sermons/the-beautiful-way-god-has-with-brokenness/

A former pro baseball player and best-selling children’s book author, Chris also inspires listeners with his message of resilience, forgiveness and unity fol...

05/26/2025

Joshua Forgot to Ask—Here's Why You Shouldn't

Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take. Proverbs 3:5-6

Sometimes in life, things are not what they seem. And not asking for advice can lead to serious problems.

Long ago, in the days of the Bible, there was a leader named Joshua. He was tasked with guiding God's people into settling a new land. One day, a people called the Gibeonites, who lived nearby, tricked Joshua. They came to see him, wearing old clothes and carrying stale bread to make it look like they had traveled from far away. They asked for a peace agreement, and without asking God for guidance, Joshua made a promise to protect them. A few days later, Joshua discovered they had lied but he couldn't break the agreement. The result was years of tension and conflict (Joshua 9).

Maybe you're not leading an entire nation, but you are leading someone. You may be a boss, a parent, or a friend giving advice to another friend. So often, we function in our roles without ever remembering to talk to God about them! This just isn't a bad idea, explained one Christian leader. He said, "Prayerlessness won't hurt you; It'll kill you. The more successful [you are] ... your church or organization, or small group is [or your work or your kids are], the more likely you're going to feel too busy for [prayer]. And that's deadly."[1]

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding," scripture tells us. "Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take" (Proverbs 3:5-6). He is waiting to give His wisdom.

It's been said that "leaders eat last." But what we need to remember is that "leaders pray first." Stop now and bring the issues of your day to God before you make a single decision!

[1] Skoog, Ryan. Lead with Prayer. 2025. Introduction, p. xvii.

Listen at: https://www.guidelines.org/sermons/joshua-forgot-to-ask-heres-why-you-shouldnt/

05/23/2025

When You Love Someone Who Struggles with Addiction

For the Lord is the Spirit, and wherever the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. 2 Corinthians 3:17

What do you do when loving someone feels like watching them drown—no matter how hard you try to save them?

Fernando watched his wife battle a drug addiction for years. Trying to help her often meant he felt like he was drowning right along beside her. He prayed, begged, and pleaded, but nothing seemed to change. Loving someone with an addiction is exhausting. Addiction, after all, is often called "the only prison where the locks are on the inside." You see your loved one's potential, but the addiction keeps pulling them down. You want to help, but you simply can't help them help themselves.

Here's one of the hardest truths we have to face in life: you can't fix someone. You can't force them to stop drinking, using drugs, or making destructive choices. What you can do is love them with the kind of love that's both compassionate and wise—the love God shows us.

First, we can love with boundaries. Loving someone doesn't mean enabling them. The Bible reminds us that each person must carry their own load (Galatians 6:5). You're not called to take responsibility for someone else's choices.

Second, we can love with prayer. We can't change the heart of another, but God can. In scripture Jesus tells us to pray and never give up (Luke 18:1).

Finally, love them with hope. Addiction doesn't get the last word—God does. Scripture promises that "where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom" (2 Corinthians 3:17). God specializes in redemption and restoration.

Loving someone with an addiction takes strength and surrender—strength to set boundaries and surrender to trust God with what you can't control. If you're walking this road today, don't walk it alone. Pray and reach out for support.

Listen at: https://www.guidelines.org/sermons/when-you-love-someone-who-struggles-with-addiction/