Alone With The Devil

·47 min·4 clips

The Surgeon General warns loneliness is more dangerous than smoking 15 cigarettes daily.

Pastor Tim Harris opens the sermon with casual remarks about the weather and a snowball incident, then transitions into a series called 'Friends for Life' about the importance of relationships. He references Surgeon General Vivek Murthy's statement that loneliness is a major public health crisis, linking it to increased risks of heart disease, stroke, and dementia. Pastor Tim connects this to biblical teachings, noting that God designed humans for community, as seen in Genesis where it was 'not good for man to be alone.' He defines a friend as someone who loves, sharpens, and walks alongside in trust and truth, focusing on the latter two aspects from James chapter 5. The sermon delves into how spiritual sanctification requires relationships to practice virtues like patience and kindness, which are developed through interactions with others. Pastor Tim shares anecdotes, including a story about Meg and Jonathan where Meg points out Jonathan's lack of friends as the root of their marital issues, illustrating the need for accountability. Another story involves Eric Sawyers, a childhood friend, who insists on finding a missing friend, showcasing lifelong commitment. Pastor Tim explains that sin brings shame and isolation, leading to vulnerability to the devil's lies, hence the episode title 'Alone With The Devil.' He critiques modern tendencies to hide behind appearances, contrasting it with past generations who shared meals without pretense. The sermon emphasizes that while Jesus is the ultimate friend, his love must be shared through human connections. Practical advice includes calling people, confessing sins to each other as per James 5:16, and actively seeking friendships at church by engaging with new members or joining small groups. Pastor Tim humorously notes that some people aren't 'fun to play with' and encourages looking beyond superficial groups. The message reinforces that Christian life is a shared journey, not a solo one, and ends with a call to prayer.

As heard by us

A James 5 sermon makes connection part of Christian formation, beginning with a snowball story.

A sermon on James 5 treats connection as more than a social benefit: it becomes part of spiritual formation. Tim Harris, pastor of Woodburn Baptist Church, begins with a snowball story, then moves into memories of old friends and one friend's resolve to search for a missing…

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Press play when you need a reminder that Christian growth requires actual people around you.

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