Recently, my church has been stressing the importance of staying connected to God. I can't tell you how many times in the past year we've used John 15:5 as the basis for a message or even a series. I'm definitely not complaining. I'm thankful to be surrounded by people who constantly remind me to connect to the vine, to abide in Him. I'm fascinated by the many different ways that different people connect to God. For me, recently, I've found myself connecting a lot by listening to sermons. I'm in a place right now where I just crave wisdom and want so badly to learn more about the truth of God's word from those who know it best. The cool thing is that I've been surrounded by people who also love listening to sermons! We get to share our favorites with each other and spend nights gathered around the TV at someone's house with our journals out, soaking in the word of God. One of my favorite things to do is to pull one up on my Youtube app and play it in my car on my way to work, school, or while I'm out running errands.

I've included five of my favorite sermons below for you to listen to. There are somany more out there, so the next time you have a little bit of free time, check out one or these or do a Youtube search for something more specific to you!

1. Brave the Waves (Anxious for Nothing) by Steven Furtick

This one is pretty relatable. We all struggle with worry or anxiety, right?

2. Kim Smith at Awakening

This is a great message, but what stands out to me the most is her testimony. It's an incredible picture of God's love for us.

3. The Explicit Gospel by Matt Chandler

The Explicit Gospel is an incredible book written by Matt Chandler. We went through this book with our college ministry a few years ago and it presented a new way to look at the Gospel.

4. My Girl by Dawnchere Wilkerson

One of my favorite messages ever! And just admit it, she's the cutest ever.

5. God of Unlimitations by Christine Caine

Okay, okay I definitely saved the best for last. I can't say enough good things about Christine Caine. She is the most incredible woman of God I've ever known (known? well, I wish). Picking just one of her messages was the hardest thing about writing this article! I encourage you all to look her up on YouTube!