In the bustling city of Birmingham, Alabama, Rock City Church stands as a beacon of bold faith, rapid growth, and unapologetic inspiration. Led by Senior Pastor Mike McClure Jr.—widely known as Pastor Mike Jr. or PMJ—this dynamic ministry has become one of the fastest-growing churches in America, with multiple locations across Central Alabama and a mission that's refreshingly straightforward: Love God, Love People, and Make a Difference.
Pastor Mike Jr. isn't your typical preacher. Dubbed "The Voice of a Generation," he's a Grammy-nominated gospel artist, multiple Stellar and Dove Award winner, author, and thought leader whose sermons blend real-life grit with chain-breaking truth. Through powerful messages delivered from the pulpit and chart-topping tracks like "Amen," "BIG," and "Impossible," he helps thousands navigate faith in practical, relatable ways. At the core of his teaching? A simple yet profound question many wrestle with: How do I find God and truly follow Him?
Drawing from his sermons, social media insights, and the heartbeat of Rock City, here's a breakdown of Pastor Mike Jr.'s timeless guidance on discovering God's presence and walking in His will.
1. Start by Seeking First—Prioritize the Kingdom
Pastor Mike often points to Matthew 6:33: "But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you." In one powerful clip, he reminds us that true fulfillment and joy come when we make pursuing God's kingdom our top priority. It's not about chasing blessings first—it's about chasing the Blesser.
"Matthew 6:33 reminds us of the importance of seeking God’s kingdom and righteousness above all else," he shares. "It is a call to prioritize our relationship with God and live a life that is pleasing to Him." When life feels chaotic or uncertain, the first step to finding God is intentional pursuit: daily prayer, Bible reading, worship, and surrendering distractions. God isn't hiding—He's waiting for us to turn toward Him fully.
2. Trust God's Plan Even When It Doesn't Make Sense
One recurring theme in Pastor Mike's teachings is trusting God's sovereignty. In messages like "Trust God's Plan" and reflections on biblical stories (from Jonah to Exodus), he emphasizes that God always provides a way, even out of nowhere. "Exodus is God's resume on how He makes a way out of nowhere," he declares in breakthrough sermons.
Finding God often happens in the valleys—when nothing makes sense externally, but hope keeps you convinced internally. He teaches that the gift of hope is "the divine ability to stay convinced on the inside when nothing makes sense on the outside." Following God means releasing control, letting go of outcomes, and believing He can use real people (mistakes and all) for real change. As he says in series like "Let Them," stop chasing what pulls you away—trust God to grow you, defend you, and align your path.
3. Align with God's Will Through Obedience and Preparation
Pastor Mike stresses that God's will isn't always a dramatic revelation—it's often revealed through alignment and action. "The will of God for your life is to do what pleases God," he teaches. Stop overcomplicating it: live holy, love others, and pursue what honors Him.
He encourages preparation as "the new prophecy." Focus your faith on the dream God placed in you, and He'll show the how. In his "Thrive" fasting guides and daily devotions (like #DevoEnergy), he urges believers to renew their minds daily through Scripture and prayer. Obedience unlocks clarity—when you're right with God, the timing is right, and the request aligns, peace comes as confirmation. "I pray God gives you peace about the decision you have to make," he often posts, reminding us that divine direction brings calm amid choices.
4. Stay Close—God Speaks in Relationship
At Rock City, community is key. Pastor Mike models that finding and following God thrives in connection—with Him and with others. Sermons like "Blessed" highlight that you're not disqualified by past mistakes; God's character (holy, loving, faithful, merciful) draws us near. Spend time in His presence, listen through worship and the Word, and let the Holy Spirit guide.
He pushes people toward Jesus through every avenue—messages, music, community efforts erasing medical debt, empowering students, and more. "Purpose is louder than pain," he and Lady J proclaim, proving God uses everyday people to spark change.
Final Thought: God Is Closer Than You Think
Pastor Mike Jr.'s message is clear: You don't have to earn God's presence—He's pursuing you. Start seeking, trust His plan, align through obedience, and stay connected. As Rock City grows and his voice reaches millions, the invitation remains: Come as you are, and let God transform you into all He created you to be.
If you're in Birmingham or watching online, check out Rock City Church (therockcity.org) for live services, sermons on YouTube (@RockCity_TV), or Pastor Mike's music and inspiration. In a world full of noise, finding and following God starts with one simple step: turning your heart toward Him today.
What has God been speaking to you lately? Share in the comments—let's encourage one another to keep seeking!
