Quit Settling
In a world that constantly demands our attention, it’s easy to get caught up in the busyness and distractions, losing sight of the incredible freedom and joy that comes from knowing we are forgiven! Today, pastor Drew wants to encourage you to quit settling and to go out into your life and be the change you’ve experienced. Celebrate the glorious moment of becoming forgiven of all your sins; standing free and knowing you are no longer condemned. Drew’s sermon focuses on the multiple reasons we should rejoice over what we have gained through Christ.
Free from Anxiety
One of the most liberating aspects of our faith is the freedom from anxiety. You don’t have to hold on to that burden anymore. The Bible tells us in Philippians 4:6-7, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” You can pray about everything, and in doing so, you release your worries into the very capable hands of God.
Free from Depression
Depression can be a dark and isolating experience, but as believers, we know how the story ends. It’s going to end good; it’s going to end with joy because Jesus is coming back. Revelation 21:4 promises, “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” This hope is not just a distant dream but a present reality that can help lift us out of the depths of despair.
Free from Fear
Fear is a powerful emotion that can paralyze us, but we are reminded in 2 Timothy 1:7, “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love, and self-discipline.” You are free from fear because we weren’t given a spirit of fear but of power. This power enables us to face life’s challenges with courage and confidence, knowing that God is with us every step of the way.
Free from Uncertainty and Searching for Identity
In a world obsessed with identity and self-discovery, it’s easy to feel lost and uncertain. But as believers, we know who we are and who we belong to. Ephesians 1:4-5 tells us, “For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love, he predestined us for adoption to Sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will.” You are a child of God, chosen and loved. Live that life, and as you do, tell people how you were set free.
Worship and Go Live Differently
Worship should re-energize us with the fullness and power of God. We should not settle for ordinary, routine worship. It is up to us when we worship to be fully aware of how great God is and let Him inspire us to praise like never before and then go out and live like we never have before.
The Power of Worship
“Worship is more than just singing songs; it’s a lifestyle,” Drew emphasized in his sermon. When we worship, we acknowledge God’s greatness and our dependence on Him. Psalm 95:1-2 invites us, “Come, let us sing for joy to the Lord; let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation. Let us come before him with thanksgiving and extol him with music and song.” This kind of worship transforms us from the inside out, aligning our hearts with God’s will and filling us with joy, peace, and love for others.
Living Out Our Faith
Living like we never have before means embracing the freedom and joy that comes from knowing we are forgiven. It means stepping out in faith, loving others as Christ loves us, and sharing the good news of the gospel. Matthew 5:14-16 reminds us, “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
Let’s Live Differently!
Pray Continually: Make prayer a constant part of your life. Talk to God about your worries, your joys, and your struggles. Trust that He hears you and cares for you.
Engage in Worship: Don’t just go through the motions. Engage your heart and mind in worship, whether you’re at church, at home, or in your car. Let your worship be a true reflection of your love for God.
Serve Others: Look for opportunities to serve those around you. Whether it’s through volunteering, offering a listening ear, or simply being kind, let your actions reflect the love of Christ.
Share Your Story: Don’t keep the good news to yourself. Share your testimony with others. Tell them how Jesus has changed your life and set you free, and offer them the hope that you have found.
Live with Purpose: Remember that you are a child of God, chosen and loved. Live with the confidence that comes from knowing your identity in Christ. Let this truth guide your decisions and actions.
Remember This…
To sum up Drew’s message, let’s quit settling for a life of mediocrity and embrace the abundant life that Jesus offers! We are forgiven, free, and no longer condemned. Let’s live like it! Let’s be the change we’ve personally experienced and share the good news with others. As we worship and live out our faith, let’s do it with joy, confidence, and purpose, knowing that we belong to a loving and mighty God.
So go be the change. Live a life that reflects the freedom and joy of forgiveness. And as you do, tell people how you got your debt forgiven and were set free. To learn more about Jesus paying our debt and setting us free, click here.
Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes invites you to join us in this Sunday. Together, we can experience God’s Grace and share the love of Jesus with those around us.
