Description

Dr. Dennis Wilkening encourages young people to commit their lives to God’s service, emphasizing that such dedication is a reasonable response to God’s mercy rather than an extreme sacrifice. Using historical and biblical examples, he calls believers to make a daily choice to follow God’s will by taking the "next right step," rather than planning out a grand life plan.

Scripture Passage
Romans 12:1-2

Main Points or Ideas

1. Reasonable Service: Serving God wholeheartedly is a reasonable, not radical, response to His mercy and sacrifice, which calls believers to present themselves as "living sacrifices" in service.
2. Sacrifice as Worship: True worship involves giving what we love most to God, acknowledging that love naturally includes sacrifice, as exemplified by Abraham's offering of Isaac.
3. Possessions and Priorities: Modern affluence can obstruct young people's willingness to follow God’s call, as they prioritize material comforts over spiritual commitments.
4. Seeking Godly Counsel: Choosing the right path often involves discerning godly advice and resisting counsel that discourages sacrificial service to the Lord.
5. Responding to God’s Call: Believers are encouraged to “volunteer” for service, trusting that God will provide guidance and direction as they take each next step.

Conclusion
Dr. Wilkening concludes by urging the congregation, particularly young people, to view a life of service as a “reasonable” and fulfilling response to God’s mercy. He calls on them to let go of fears or distractions, such as materialism and ungodly counsel, that might hold them back from following God’s leading. By taking the next right step, they can experience the true joy and purpose found in committing their lives to Christ.