Tuned Into God

8/23/2026

Sermon Info

• Speaker / Pastor: Rev. Douglas Dill

Scripture References

• Exodus 20:4–11 (referenced / verse reading): used to explain the commandments against idols, the misuse of God’s name, and the call to Sabbath rest.

• Matthew (greatest commandment) – quoted to show the priority: love God with all your heart, soul, and mind, and love your neighbor as yourself.

Central Message

• God gives the Ten Commandments to establish a relationship with us — the first commandments are vertical (our connection to God) and set the foundation so our horizontal relationships (others, family, work) stay healthy. Staying “in tune” with God prevents idols from taking our focus.

Key Points

• 1. The Ten Commandments are meant to create and maintain a relationship with God; God comes to us first.

• 1. The first three commandments are vertical: how we reach and relate to God (no idols, honor God’s name, keep the Sabbath).

• 1. Misplaced focus becomes idolatry: work, money, status, toys, or any pursuit that absorbs our attention can replace God.

• 1. Keeping the Sabbath gives rest and preserves proper perspective; rest sustains focus on God and benefits people and creation.

• 1. When we are in tune with God, our relationships with others, family, and ourselves improve.

Notable Quotes

• > “God makes the relationship first.”

• > “You shall not make for yourself an idol.”

• > “Stay in tune to God.”

Application

• Regularly check where your focus and energy go; identify any idols (work, money, status, possessions) that divert you from God.

• Practice Sabbath rest: intentionally set aside time to rest and reconnect with God and family.

• Guard speech: avoid misusing God’s name and be mindful about how words reflect your relationship with God.

• Let vertical devotion (God-focused) shape horizontal behavior toward others—love God, then love neighbor.

Prayer Points

• Thanks for God’s grace and for commandments that guide relationship with God.

• Gratitude for the provision that allows us to be in touch with God and for Jesus as the mediator.

• Prayer for help to stay focused on God and to avoid turning good things into idols.

Reflection Questions

• 1. What currently takes your focus away from God — is it work, money, status, or something else?

• 2. When was the last time you lost focus because you were not “in tune” with God, and what happened as a result?

• 3. What practical step will you take this week to practice Sabbath rest or refocus on God?