Ever feel like you’re just going through the motions—same route to work, same coffee shop, same seat at church—while carrying burdens nobody else can see? You smile, you wave, you look fine on the outside. But inside? There’s anxiety about tomorrow, regret over yesterday, and a quiet ache that nobody seems to notice.
Here’s the beautiful truth: Jesus sees you differently.
When the King Rides Into Your Reality
In Luke 19, Jesus enters Jerusalem during Passover week. The city is packed—markets buzzing, soldiers patrolling, families hustling through the holiday chaos. Sound familiar? It’s not so different from our own hectic lives. But while the crowds saw a parade, Jesus saw something deeper.
He didn’t just hear the shouts of “Hosanna!” He saw the faces behind them. He noticed the poor longing for deliverance, the religious leaders clinging to control, the disciples excited but confused. He saw people hoping for a quick fix—a Messiah who’d overthrow Rome without the mess of a battle.
Jesus saw their hearts. And He sees yours too.
The King Who Weeps Over Missed Moments
Here’s where the story takes an unexpected turn. As Jesus approaches Jerusalem, He doesn’t celebrate the praise—He weeps. Not just a few tears, but loud, sobbing grief. Why? Because He knew they were missing the very moment God had come near.
They wanted a political savior. He came as the Prince of Peace. They expected a warrior on a warhorse. He arrived humbly on a donkey, fulfilling ancient prophecy. They craved immediate relief. He offered eternal salvation.
And because they couldn’t see past their expectations, they missed their visitation. Within 40 years, the city would face devastating destruction—exactly as Jesus predicted through His tears.
The question for us today: Are we praising Jesus for who He truly is, or just for what we hope He’ll do for us?
Real Life With the King Who Runs Toward You
Here’s what moves me most about this story: Jesus knew what was coming. He knew the crowds would turn on Him. He knew the cross awaited. He knew the tomb was being prepared. And still, He entered the city.
Why? Because that’s what love does. Love runs toward broken, hurting people who need truth. Love doesn’t wait for perfect conditions or guaranteed applause.
Just like He showed up for Mary and Martha when Lazarus had been dead four days, Jesus shows up in your mess—not just at your destination. He’s the resurrection and the life, present in your in-between moments, your waiting seasons, your darkest valleys.
Your Response Matters
Jesus still looks into crowds today. He sees you—your heart, your struggles, your secret hopes. The stones would cry out if we stayed silent, but He invites you to respond.
Will you merely shout “Hosanna” on Sundays, or will you follow Him through the week? Will you see Him as a cosmic vending machine, or as the Savior who weeps over you, loves you completely, and laid down His life for you?
Don’t miss this moment. Don’t give Him reason to weep over a hardened heart or delayed decision. Let Him ride into your life today—not next week, not on Easter, but right now.
Prayer: Father, thank You for a King who sees us fully and loves us anyway. Help us respond to Your presence with open hearts, not just empty praise. Ride into our lives today and change us from the inside out. May we follow You not just to the parade, but all the way to the cross and beyond. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
When Familiar Places Hide Real Pain
We’re creatures of habit, aren’t we? Every day, we drive the same routes, shop at the same stores, and wave at the same neighbors. Many of us even sit in the same church pew each Sunday. Our lives unfold in familiar, comfortable places.
But beneath the surface of these ordinary routines, we carry extraordinary burdens. Quiet anxiety about tomorrow. Regrets over yesterday’s choices. Hope that somehow we can still turn things around.
The Masks We Wear
Here’s the strange reality: people see us every day, but do they really see us?
You can walk down Main Street, sit in your favorite coffee shop, or show up at church on Sunday morning, and everyone assumes everything is fine. Why? Because we’ve mastered the art of looking good on the outside. We put on a smile, dress well, and project an image that says, “I’ve got it all together.”
That’s what real life looks like from the outside—at least, that’s what we want people to see.
Jesus Sees Differently
But here’s the beautiful truth that changes everything: Jesus doesn’t see us the same way people do.
While others see our carefully constructed exteriors, Jesus sees our hearts. He sees past the smile to the anxiety underneath. He looks beyond the polished appearance to the regret we’re carrying. He knows the real struggles we face in those familiar places.
Why This Matters for Your Faith Journey
Understanding that Jesus sees us completely—not just our Sunday best—transforms how we approach our relationship with Him:
1. You Can Be Authentic There’s no need to pretend with Jesus. He already knows what you’re going through, what you’re thinking, and what you’re feeling.
2. You’re Not Alone in Your Struggles When you realize Jesus sees your real life—not just the version you show others—you understand that He’s present in your actual circumstances, not just your ideal ones.
3. His Love Isn’t Based on Appearances Jesus doesn’t love the polished version of you more than the struggling version. His love is constant, regardless of how well you’re holding it together.
Moving Forward with Hope
The next time you’re sitting in that familiar coffee shop, driving that same route, or settling into your regular church seat, remember this: Jesus sees you. Really sees you. And He doesn’t turn away from what He sees.
He sees the anxiety, the regret, the hope, and the struggle—and He meets you right there in those familiar places with unfamiliar grace.
You don’t have to keep pretending everything is fine. With Jesus, you can be real about your real life, because He’s already seen it all and loves you anyway.
The question isn’t whether Jesus sees you—He does. The question is: will you let Him in?
One Simple Prayer
When you think about the Holy Spirit as present in your life—internally, spiritually, relationally, physically, and mentally—there is only one prayer that makes sense. Only one prayer that you and I can pray: “Lord, I am available.”
Not “Lord, use somebody else.” Not “Lord, when it’s convenient.” Not “when I feel like it.” But simply, “Lord, I’m here.”
A Prayer with Biblical Power
Why is this prayer so powerful? Because it changed Moses’ life. This prayer made David a king. This prayer launched the early church, and this prayer still changes lives today.
Throughout Scripture, God used ordinary people who made themselves available for extraordinary obedience. The common thread wasn’t talent, education, or perfection—it was availability.
What Availability Looks Like
Saying “Lord, I am available” means:
Surrendering control – Letting God be in the driver’s seat of your life instead of trying to manage everything yourself.
Stepping out in faith – Doing things that require God’s power because they’re beyond your own abilities.
Daily dependence – Recognizing that you can’t live today on yesterday’s spiritual power. His mercies are new every morning.
Obedience over comfort – Following where God leads even when it’s scary or unknown.
The Holy Spirit’s Role in Availability
The Holy Spirit doesn’t just dwell in us—He sends us. His presence isn’t meant to make us comfortable but to launch us into mission. Acts 1:8 promises, “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be my witnesses.”
This power isn’t for our benefit alone. It’s given so we can be dispensers of the Holy Spirit, creating pockets of heaven everywhere people encounter us.
Big, Hairy, Audacious Goals
When we make ourselves available to God, He calls us to accomplish things we couldn’t do on our own. These are the big, hairy, audacious goals that require the Holy Spirit’s power.
If we can accomplish something in our own strength, it doesn’t require faith. But when we step out to do what only God can accomplish through us, that’s when we see His power at work.
Starting 2026 with Availability
As we begin this new year, the question isn’t whether you have enough talent, resources, or experience. The question is: Are you available?
God isn’t looking for perfect people. He’s looking for available people—those willing to say, “Lord, I’m here. Use me.”
This prayer changed biblical history. It launched movements. It transformed ordinary people into world-changers. And it can do the same in your life today.
So pray it with intention: “Lord, I am available.” Then watch what God does when you truly mean it.
A Staggering Truth About God’s Presence
It’s staggering to ponder this reality: God’s Spirit is in you. Not just with you or around you, but actually dwelling within you. He is in every aspect of you—in what you think, in what you say, and in what you do.
This isn’t just theological theory. If you and I really believed it and lived that way, it would change every aspect of our lives.
Your Body as God’s Temple
First Corinthians 6:19-20 declares, “Do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.”
Under the Old Covenant, God’s presence dwelt in the temple, specifically in the Holy of Holies. But when Jesus died and the temple curtain was torn in two, God’s presence was released to dwell in every believer through the Holy Spirit.
What This Means Practically
God’s Spirit being present in your life should transform:
How we treat our bodies – Our physical health matters because we are temples of the Holy Spirit.
What we tolerate – The things we allow into our minds and lives take on new significance when we recognize God’s presence within us.
How we view everyday obedience – Not just church on Sundays and Wednesdays, or Bible study on Tuesdays. No—everyday obedience in every moment.
The Ultimate New Year’s Resolution
Want to talk about a New Year’s resolution? Here it is: Allow God’s presence not just to be in you, but to transform you.
God’s presence in our lives makes ordinary faithfulness look dignified. It brings glory to God by making our faith very personal, very real, and very practical. How we rest, how we steward our health, how we resist sin, even how we study—every aspect of daily life becomes an act of worship.
Worship as Response
Worship is simply our response to God’s revelation of himself. How you and I respond to Jesus every day—in all that we do, say, and think—gives worship back to God.
This means your Monday morning commute can be worship. Your interactions with coworkers can be worship. The way you handle stress, make decisions, and treat your family—all of it becomes an opportunity to honor the God who dwells within you.
Living Transformed Lives
The Holy Spirit’s presence isn’t meant to be reserved for special moments or church services. He is with you constantly, working to reshape your thought patterns, assumptions, desires, and reactions.
When Scripture corrects your thinking, that’s the Spirit. When peace interrupts anxiety, that’s the Spirit. When forgiveness replaces bitterness, that’s the Spirit working within you.
Don’t live as though God’s presence is distant or occasional. Recognize the staggering truth: the Creator of the universe has chosen to make His home in you. Let that reality transform everything.
Have you broken any of your New Year’s resolutions yet?
We’re barely a week into 2026, and many of us are already struggling with the promises we made to ourselves. But what if the real transformation we’re seeking isn’t about willpower or self-discipline—what if it’s about surrendering to a power already living inside us?
The Spirit Within: More Than a Sunday Experience
Too often, we treat the Holy Spirit like a special guest who only shows up on Sundays or during crisis moments. We confess belief in Him, sing about His presence, then live Monday through Saturday as if we’re on our own. But Scripture paints a radically different picture.
When you accepted Christ, God didn’t just forgive your sins—He placed His Spirit inside you. Acts 2:38 promises that when we repent and are baptized, we receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. Not as an occasional visitor, but as a permanent resident transforming us from the inside out.
Jesus said it plainly in John 15:5: “Apart from me, you can do nothing.” Spiritual life flows only when we stay connected to Him. The Holy Spirit makes that connection possible, not through straining and striving, but through daily dependence.
Four Internal Transformations
The Holy Spirit’s presence reshapes four critical areas of our lives:
Spiritually, He keeps us connected to the vine. Like branches drawing nourishment from the trunk, we don’t produce fruit by trying harder—we produce it by abiding deeper. When conviction comes, when Scripture suddenly comes alive, when hunger for God grows—that’s the Spirit at work.
Relationally, He sharpens us through community. Proverbs 27:17 reminds us that “iron sharpens iron.” The Spirit never works in isolation. Who has permission to speak truth into your life? Who are you sharpening in return? Isolation weakens us; godly relationships strengthen us.
Physically, He reminds us that our bodies are His temple (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). God’s presence isn’t just with us—it’s in us. How we rest, steward our health, and resist sin all become acts of worship when we recognize we’re carrying His presence everywhere we go.
Mentally, He renews our thinking. Romans 12:2 calls us to transformation through mind renewal. Real change happens when the Spirit patiently rewires us, replacing lies with truth, fear with faith, anxiety with peace.
From Internal to External: The Mission Unleashed
But the Holy Spirit doesn’t stop with internal transformation. He always moves us outward. When the Spirit fills us, He compels us to make disciples, establishes spiritual community, mobilizes new leaders, and launches us into mission.
The Book of Acts shows us ordinary people empowered for extraordinary obedience. And here’s the remarkable thing—Acts never concludes. It ends with movement because the Spirit is still sending believers into the world today.
Your 2026 Prayer
As we launch into this new year, there’s one prayer that changes everything: “Lord, I am available.”
Not “use somebody else.” Not “when it’s convenient.” Simply: I am available.
That prayer changed Moses’ life. It made David a king. It launched the early church. And it still changes lives today—when we surrender to the Holy Spirit’s power and allow Him to work through us.
Ready to catch the wind of the Spirit this year? Join us at Lakeview Church as we explore what it means to live Spirit-filled lives that transform our community through Jesus’ love. Visit our website to watch the full sermon or connect with our community.
Heavenly Father, we invite You to take full control of our lives in 2026. We don’t want to live on our own strength anymore. Fill us with Your Holy Spirit. Make us available for Your purposes. Help us catch the wind of Your presence and go wherever You lead. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
The Power of Spiritual Community
How important are relationships in our spiritual walk? The answer is simple: huge. The Holy Spirit works through godly relationships to encourage us, correct us, and help us grow in faith. Yet many Christians try to navigate their spiritual journey alone, missing out on one of God’s primary tools for transformation.
Encouragement and Accountability in Christian Friendship
The Spirit uses relationships for encouragement. Who do you have around you that’s going to encourage you on a daily basis? Beyond Sunday morning services, we need people speaking truth and hope into our lives regularly.
But here’s the uncomfortable part: the Spirit also uses relationships for correction. Who is around you to correct you? Who helps keep you accountable? These aren’t easy questions, but they’re essential for spiritual maturity.
When we embrace both encouragement and correction, something beautiful happens. We come together in shared worship and celebration, rejoicing with the Spirit and experiencing joy together. This is biblical community in action.
The Iron Sharpens Iron Principle
Proverbs 27:17 tells us, “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” This isn’t a gentle process. There’s friction. Sparks fly. But without that friction, the blade grows dull.
Have you ever tried to mow your lawn with a dull blade? It takes forever and your grass looks horrible. The same principle applies to our spiritual lives. Don’t walk through life being dull. Sharpen the blade, sharpen your walk, and your life will change.
Finding Your Iron-Sharpening Community
So who’s sharpening you spiritually? Who has permission to speak truth into your life? And who do you sharpen in return?
Isolation weakens us—it’s where sin finds a stronghold. But relationship with other believers strengthens us. The New Testament uses the phrase “one another” 59 times, emphasizing mutual behavior and relationships in the Christian life.
Moving Beyond Sunday Morning
Christian community isn’t just about attending church services. It’s about daily interaction, mutual encouragement, loving correction, and shared mission. It’s about being vulnerable enough to let others see your struggles and strong enough to help carry theirs.
The early church understood this. Acts 2:42-44 describes believers who devoted themselves to teaching, fellowship, breaking bread, and prayer together. They had everything in common—purpose, mission, dedication, and support.
Take Action Today
If you’re trying to grow spiritually without meaningful Christian relationships, you’re making the journey harder than it needs to be. Find a small group, connect with a mentor, or simply reach out to another believer and start building authentic community.
Remember: the Spirit never works in isolation. God designed spiritual growth to happen in relationship. Don’t settle for a dull blade when God offers the sharpening power of Christian community.
As we enter a new year, many of us may feel uncertain about what lies ahead. At Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, we are reminded that while God doesn’t promise an obstacle-free life, He does promise His faithful presence. Our mission, “Be the change as Jesus has changed us,” encourages us to study, share, and serve, finding strength in God’s presence to guide us through life’s darkest valleys.
The Assurance of God’s Presence
In the sermon, we are reminded of the importance of trusting in God’s presence, especially when facing challenges that seem insurmountable. Psalm 23:4 offers a powerful assurance: “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me.” This promise is not just a comforting thought but a transformative reality that empowers us to face life’s darkest valleys with courage and hope.
Study: Deepening Our Relationship with God
At Lakeview Christian Church, we encourage our community to study the Bible to deepen their relationship with God and understanding of His presence. Engaging with Scripture allows us to see how God has been with His people throughout history, from Moses at the Red Sea to the disciples in the New Testament. By studying these stories, we can draw strength and inspiration for our own lives.
Share: Building a Supportive Community
Sharing our experiences of God’s presence with others is a vital part of our mission. By participating in small groups or church gatherings, we can encourage one another and build a supportive community. Sharing testimonies of how God has been with us in difficult times can inspire others to trust in His presence as well.
Serve: Demonstrating God’s Love Through Action
Serving others is a tangible way to demonstrate God’s presence in our lives. Whether through volunteering at church events or participating in community service projects, we can be the hands and feet of Jesus, showing love and compassion to those around us. Our actions can be a powerful testament to the reality of God’s presence in the world.
Conclusion As we find strength in God’s presence, let us embrace the promise of His presence in our lives. By trusting in His presence, studying His Word, sharing our experiences, and serving others, we can be the change that reflects the transformative power of Jesus. At Lakeview Christian Church, we are committed to walking this journey together, confident that God is with us every step of the way.
Life is full of challenges, and as we enter a new year, many of us may feel overwhelmed by the obstacles ahead. At Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, we are reminded that while God doesn’t promise an obstacle-free life, He does promise His faithful presence. Our mission, “Be the change as Jesus has changed us,” encourages us to study, share, and serve, trusting in God’s presence to guide us through life’s darkest valleys.
The Promise of God’s Presence
In the sermon, we are reminded of the importance of trusting in God’s presence, especially when facing challenges that seem insurmountable. Psalm 23:4 offers a powerful assurance: “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me.” This promise is not just a comforting thought but a transformative reality that empowers us to face life’s darkest valleys with courage and hope.
Study: Strengthening Our Faith Through Scripture
At Lakeview Christian Church, we encourage our community to study the Bible to strengthen their faith and understanding of God’s presence. Engaging with Scripture allows us to see how God has been with His people throughout history, from Moses at the Red Sea to the disciples in the New Testament. By studying these stories, we can draw strength and inspiration for our own lives.
Share: Encouraging One Another in Faith
Sharing our experiences of God’s presence with others is a vital part of our mission. By participating in small groups or church gatherings, we can encourage one another and build a supportive community. Sharing testimonies of how God has been with us in difficult times can inspire others to trust in His presence as well.
Serve: Living Out God’s Presence Through Action
Serving others is a tangible way to demonstrate God’s presence in our lives. Whether through volunteering at church events or participating in community service projects, we can be the hands and feet of Jesus, showing love and compassion to those around us. Our actions can be a powerful testament to the reality of God’s presence in the world.
Conclusion As we navigate life’s challenges, let us embrace the promise of God’s presence in our lives. By trusting in His presence, studying His Word, sharing our experiences, and serving others, we can be the change that reflects the transformative power of Jesus. At Lakeview Christian Church, we are committed to walking this journey together, confident that God is with us every step of the way.
Ever find yourself standing on the brink of a new year, wondering what lies ahead? As the clock ticks down the final moments of December, we often find ourselves caught in a thin space between the past and the future. It’s a time filled with reflection, anticipation, and sometimes, uncertainty. But what if the most important question isn’t about what will change, but rather, who will go with us?
Moses’ Journey: A Lesson in Divine Companionship
Consider the story of Moses, a man who faced immense challenges and uncertainties. From tending sheep in the wilderness to leading the Israelites out of Egypt, Moses’ journey was anything but straightforward. Yet, through every obstacle, God was with him. In Exodus 3:12, God assures Moses, “I will be with you.” This promise wasn’t about making the path easy or free from fear, but about the assurance of divine presence.
Moses’ confidence didn’t stem from knowing every detail of the journey ahead but from the certainty that God was by his side. This is a powerful reminder for us as we step into a new year. Our strength and courage come not from our circumstances but from the presence of God in our lives.
Facing Obstacles with Faith
Life is full of challenges, much like the Red Sea that stood before the Israelites. With Pharaoh’s army behind them and the sea ahead, fear could have easily overtaken them. Yet, Moses encouraged the people to “stand firm and see the salvation of the Lord” (Exodus 14:13). God’s presence was visibly with them, guiding them through the impossible.
As we face our own “Red Seas”—be it financial struggles, health issues, or personal dilemmas—it’s crucial to remember that God doesn’t promise an obstacle-free life. Instead, He promises to walk with us through every trial. Psalm 23:4 beautifully captures this truth: “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me.”
Finding Rest in God’s Presence
Moses, despite being one of the greatest leaders, experienced exhaustion and moments of feeling like a failure. In Exodus 33:14-15, God reassures him, “My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.” This is a vital lesson for us today. In our pursuit of success and achievement, we must not neglect the importance of resting in God’s presence.
As we enter 2026, let’s prioritize our spiritual growth by setting aside time for solitude and reflection. Whether it’s through daily devotions, prayer, or simply being still, these moments allow us to reconnect with God and find the strength to face whatever lies ahead.
Action Steps for the New Year
- Reflect on God’s Presence: Take time each day to acknowledge God’s presence in your life. Whether through prayer, meditation, or reading scripture, let this be a daily practice.
- Embrace Solitude: Find moments of quiet to listen for God’s voice. It might be in the early morning hours or during a walk in nature. Use this time to seek His guidance and peace.
- Trust in His Plan: As you set goals for the new year, remember that God’s plans are greater than our own. Trust that He is with you, guiding your steps.
A Prayer for the Journey Ahead
Heavenly Father, as we step into a new year, we thank You for Your unwavering presence in our lives. Help us to trust in Your guidance and find rest in Your promises. May we face each day with courage, knowing that You are with us every step of the way. Amen.
As you embark on this new chapter, remember that you are never alone. God’s presence is with you, offering strength, comfort, and hope for the journey ahead. Embrace the new year with confidence, knowing that with God by your side, all things are possible.
As we stand on the brink of a new year, many of us find ourselves reflecting on the past and anticipating the future. At Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, we are reminded of the importance of trusting in God’s presence as we navigate the uncertainties of life. Our mission, “Be the change as Jesus has changed us,” encourages us to study, share, and serve, embodying the transformative power of God’s presence.
Understanding God’s Presence
In the sermon, we are reminded of the critical distinction between trusting in God’s power and trusting in His presence. While God’s power is indeed mighty, it is His presence that offers us comfort and assurance. As we face challenges that seem insurmountable—decisions we can’t undo, problems we can’t fix—it’s essential to remember that God doesn’t promise an obstacle-free life. Instead, He promises to walk with us through every trial.
Biblical Assurance of God’s Presence
Psalm 23:4 is a powerful reminder of God’s promise: “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me.” This verse reassures us that God is not waiting on the other side of our troubles; He is walking with us through them. This presence is not just a comforting thought but a transformative reality that empowers us to face life’s darkest valleys with courage and hope.
Study: Deepening Our Understanding of God’s Presence
At Lakeview Christian Church, we encourage our community to study the Bible to deepen their understanding of God’s presence. Engaging with Scripture allows us to see how God has been with His people throughout history, from Moses at the Red Sea to the disciples in the New Testament. By studying these stories, we can draw strength and inspiration for our own lives.
Share: Building Community Through God’s Presence
Sharing our experiences of God’s presence with others is a vital part of our mission. By participating in small groups or church gatherings, we can encourage one another and build a supportive community. Sharing testimonies of how God has been with us in difficult times can inspire others to trust in His presence as well.
Serve: Demonstrating God’s Presence Through Action
Serving others is a tangible way to demonstrate God’s presence in our lives. Whether through volunteering at church events or participating in community service projects, we can be the hands and feet of Jesus, showing love and compassion to those around us. Our actions can be a powerful testament to the reality of God’s presence in the world.
Conclusion As we step into the new year, let us embrace the promise of God’s presence in our lives. By trusting in His presence, studying His Word, sharing our experiences, and serving others, we can be the change that reflects the transformative power of Jesus. At Lakeview Christian Church, we are committed to walking this journey together, confident that God is with us every step of the way.