At Lakeview Christian Church, our mission is clear: Be the change as Jesus has changed us. But what does it truly mean to live out this calling? So often in the Christian life, we find ourselves surrounded by knowledge—sermons, Bible studies, podcasts, and devotionals. Yet, as Pastor Jim reminded us recently, “the problem isn’t what we don’t know. The problem is we don’t do what we do know.” This insight isn’t just wise; it’s deeply biblical.
Faith Is More Than Hearing
James, writing to the early church, makes a profound observation that still resonates with us today. His words cut to the heart of what it means to be a follower of Jesus:
“But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.”
— James 1:22, ESV
James addresses believers—people who already have faith, who have heard and been taught the truth. Yet, he warns that real faith doesn’t stop at hearing. Real faith moves toward obedience. In other words, it’s not enough to simply listen to God’s Word or agree with it intellectually. We are called to act on it, to let it transform our daily lives.
The Danger of Self-Deception
One of the most sobering truths from James is that it’s possible to deceive ourselves. We can attend church, nod along with the message, and even memorize Scripture without ever allowing God’s Word to take root and bear fruit in our actions. James uses strong language because the stakes are high: a faith that hears but does not act is incomplete. It’s a faith that’s stalled at the starting line, never crossing into the abundant life Jesus offers.
The “Just 3” Pathway: Study, Share, Serve
At Lakeview Christian Church, we believe transformation is found in the rhythm of “Just 3”: Study, Share, Serve.
- Study: To love and know God, we must immerse ourselves in Scripture, prayerfully seeking to understand not just the words, but God’s heart behind them. But as James teaches, study is the beginning, not the end.
- Share: Our faith is not meant to be kept private. Sharing means investing in relationships, loving others enough to speak grace, truth, and encouragement. Genuine fellowship transforms us and those around us.
- Serve: Love must show itself in action. Serving is love in motion—meeting needs, lifting burdens, and being the hands and feet of Jesus in our homes, neighborhoods, and beyond.
By embracing this “Just 3” lifestyle, we move from passive listeners to active participants in God’s work. We become the change—because Jesus has changed us.
The Power of Obedience
Obedience is not about earning God’s love; it’s our response to the love we’ve already received. Jesus himself said,
“If you love me, you will keep my commandments.”
— John 14:15, ESV
This is not a burdensome command, but an invitation to experience freedom. As we align our lives with God’s truth, we discover the joy and purpose for which we were created. Obedience transforms us from the inside out and impacts the world around us.
Living the Change—Every Day
At Lakeview Christian Church, we’re committed to helping every person move from hearing to doing. Whether you’re new to faith or have walked with Jesus for decades, the call is the same: Don’t just hear it, do it.
Ask yourself today:
- Where in my life am I only hearing, but not doing?
- How can I study more deeply, share more intentionally, or serve more selflessly?
- What step of obedience is God inviting me to take this week?
Conclusion: A Church On Mission
Faith that only listens will wither, but faith that acts will thrive. Let’s be a church known for more than our words. Let’s be a church that studies, shares, and serves—living out the change Jesus has made in us, and becoming the change the world needs to see.
Join us at Lakeview Christian Church. Let’s move beyond hearing—let’s “be doers of the word, and not hearers only.”
At Lakeview Christian Church, we believe that real faith is forged not just in celebration, but in challenge—when saying “yes” to God is costly and hard. There is no greater example of this than Jesus Himself, who faced temptation in the wilderness and in the garden but never surrendered, never doubted, and always trusted His Father’s goodness.
“Yet he never surrendered, and he was tempted 3 times by Satan. By the way, not just by some voice, but by Satan. Who tried to convince him to choose another path. And Jesus answered what? With God’s word over and over and over. Why? Because Jesus trusted in his Father’s goodness.”
Adam in the Garden, Jesus in the Wilderness
The Bible presents us with two pivotal stories: Adam and Eve in the garden, and Jesus in the wilderness. Adam and Eve had every blessing imaginable, yet when tempted by the serpent, they doubted God’s goodness and chose their own way. In contrast, Jesus stood in the wilderness—hungry, alone, lacking every earthly comfort—and still He chose God’s way.
“For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin.” (Hebrews 4:15, ESV)
Where Adam failed, Jesus triumphed. Where Adam was surrounded by abundance but gave in, Jesus, with nothing, remained faithful.
Jesus’ Secret: Trusting the Father’s Goodness
The power of Jesus’ victory over temptation wasn’t just in resisting sin, but in trusting that God’s path—though hard—was always good. When Satan tempted Him (Matthew 4:1–11, ESV), Jesus answered every lie with Scripture, anchoring Himself in the truth.
“But he answered, ‘It is written, “‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.’” (Matthew 4:4, ESV)
Even in the Garden of Gethsemane, on the eve of His crucifixion, Jesus prayed:
“And going a little farther he fell on his face and prayed, saying, ‘My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as you will.’” (Matthew 26:39, ESV)
This is the heart of faith: “God, I will trust in your way because your way is good.”
The “Just 3” Model: Following Jesus’ Example
At Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, we’re on a mission to “be the change as Jesus has changed us.” Jesus’ victory over temptation shows us how. Our “Just 3” model—Study, Share, Serve—equips us to follow in His footsteps.
Study: Love and Know God
Jesus overcame temptation by knowing and using God’s Word. We must do the same.
“I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.” (Psalm 119:11, ESV)
Join a Bible study or commit to daily reading. Equip yourself with truth for the battles ahead.
Share: Know and Love Others
Jesus didn’t walk His journey alone. He invited others in, shared His struggles, and called His friends to pray with Him—even in His darkest hour.
“Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2, ESV)
Share your story in a small group or with a trusted friend. You are not alone.
Serve: Love in Action
Jesus’ ultimate act of service was laying down His life for us. Serving others shifts our focus from self to God’s mission.
“For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” (Mark 10:45, ESV)
Find a place to serve—inside the church or in the Portage Lakes community—and let your love be active.
Be the Change: Trust, Obey, and Overcome
Every day, we stand at a crossroads like Adam and Jesus—faced with the choice to trust God or go our own way. Jesus shows us that victory comes not from willpower alone, but from trusting God’s goodness and living in the power of His Word.
At Lakeview Christian Church, we invite you to:
- Study the Bible daily to anchor your heart in God’s truth.
- Share your journey with others; find encouragement and accountability.
- Serve in love, following Jesus’ example.
Let’s be a church that not only resists temptation but also points the world to the goodness of God. Be the change as Jesus has changed you!
At Lakeview Christian Church, we often use relatable illustrations to drive home spiritual truths. Picture this: you’re blindfolded, walking toward a cliff. Would you keep moving forward, wondering when you should stop? Of course not. The wise person stops, asks for help, and makes a decision long before reaching the edge.
“But you don’t walk toward a cliff and go, I wonder when I should stop. You start thinking about that decision long before. And that’s where we are with sin.”
Temptation rarely arrives with warning lights or sirens. More often, it grows quietly in the shadows—especially when we’re tired, lonely, angry, discouraged, or even riding high on success. Everyday faith means recognizing these moments and taking action before disaster strikes.
Understanding Your Weaknesses: The First Step Toward Change
One of the most powerful lessons from our Celebrate Recovery ministry is the courage to admit our weaknesses. Admitting struggle isn’t a sign of failure—it’s the beginning of freedom.
“You and I need to understand our weaknesses so that we can take them seriously. Part of what we do in Celebrate Recovery… we work with our addictions and our problems and we, number one, admit them.”
The Bible affirms this honest self-assessment:
“If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:8–9, ESV)
We don’t have to pretend we are invincible. In fact, Scripture calls us to humility and vigilance:
“Therefore let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall.” (1 Corinthians 10:12, ESV)
The Power of Community: We Stop Each Other Before the Fall
No one was meant to travel the road of faith alone. At Lakeview Christian Church, we believe deeply in the power of community—a place where we encourage, inspire, and help each other avoid disaster.
“We’re there to encourage one another, to inspire one another, to help each other stop when we know we’re going to fall. We all need someone in our lives that can help us before we fall, because if we don’t, we will.”
James echoes this in his letter:
“Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed.” (James 5:16, ESV)
God created us for relationships. When we’re honest about our struggles and accept help, we experience healing, hope, and transformation.
The “Just 3” Model: Practical Steps to Avoid the Edge
How do we put this into practice at Lakeview Christian Church? Through our “Just 3” model—Study, Share, Serve—we build habits that keep us far from the cliff’s edge.
Study: Love and Know God
When we immerse ourselves in God’s Word, we gain wisdom and clarity. The Bible is our guide, our warning sign, and our comfort.
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105, ESV)
Share: Know and Love Others
Sharing struggles and victories with trusted friends is vital. Isolation is dangerous; community is life-giving. Join a small group or recovery ministry, and don’t be afraid to ask for help.
“Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” (Proverbs 27:17, ESV)
Serve: Love in Action
When we serve others, we shift our focus from our own temptations and needs to the needs of God’s people. Service is a tangible way to walk in the victory Jesus has won for us.
“As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace.” (1 Peter 4:10, ESV)
Be the Change: Let Jesus Transform Your Journey
At Lakeview Christian Church, our mission is clear: Be the change as Jesus has changed us. We invite you to:
- Study God’s Word daily to recognize temptation’s warning signs.
- Share your journey with a trusted community—don’t walk alone.
- Serve others and experience the joy of love in action.
If you’re struggling, reach out. Celebrate Recovery and our small groups exist so no one has to face the cliff alone. Let’s encourage one another to stop, turn back, and walk in the freedom Jesus provides.
This past Sunday at Lakeview Christian Church, we celebrated a remarkable milestone: 100 years of God’s unwavering faithfulness to our congregation and community. As we reflected on the legacy built by generations before us, we turned to the book of James for timeless wisdom that speaks directly to the daily struggles each of us face. In James 1:13–18, we’re reminded that a living, everyday faith recognizes temptation for what it is and responds by trusting in the goodness of God.
Main Point: God Is Not the Source of Temptation—He Is the Giver of Every Good Gift
One of the most important truths James wants us to understand is that God never tempts anyone to do wrong. Temptation does not originate from God’s character or His will. Instead, James writes, “Each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. Then desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it is fully grown brings forth death” (James 1:14-15). This means the struggle starts within us—our own desires—and not from God.
From the very beginning in Genesis 3, the enemy has tried to convince humanity that God is somehow holding out on us. Satan’s first lie was, “Did God really say…?”—planting seeds of doubt about God’s goodness. Even today, we hear the echo of that lie: “If God really loved you, He wouldn’t make you wait,” or, “You deserve this.” But James sets the record straight: “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, who does not change like shifting shadows” (James 1:17). God is the giver of good, not the source of temptation.
Recognizing Temptation in Real Life
Temptation often comes when we’re most vulnerable—when we’re tired, lonely, frustrated, or afraid. The voices of temptation are many: “Just do it once, it won’t hurt,” “No one will ever know,” or “You’ve earned this.” Sometimes temptation is blatant; other times it sneaks in subtly, under the surface.
James draws a critical distinction between trials and temptations. Trials test our faith and can draw us closer to God, but temptations try to turn our hearts away from Him. The same circumstances can be used by God to build perseverance or by the enemy to lure us toward sin. The difference is in our response.
Practical Action Steps: Building Everyday Faith
So, how do we build an everyday faith that stands firm against temptation? Here are practical steps drawn straight from the wisdom of James and the example of Jesus:
- Acknowledge the Real Source: When faced with temptation, resist the urge to blame God or your circumstances. As James says, temptation starts with our own desires. Admitting this personal responsibility is the first step toward victory.
- Recognize the Progression: Sin doesn’t happen all at once. It begins with desire, grows in secret, and eventually leads to visible action. Catch temptation early—before it takes root.
- Ask Yourself Four Questions When Tempted:
- What is this temptation?
- What is it promising me?
- What will it cost me?
- Do I believe that God’s way is better?
- Trust God’s Goodness: When tempted to believe God is withholding something, remember the truth: God is good, and He is not hiding anything better from you. Jesus modeled this perfectly—when tempted in the wilderness, He answered Satan with God’s Word and trusted His Father’s plan (Matthew 26:39).
- Lean Into Christian Community: Don’t try to fight temptation alone. Reach out to trusted friends, join a small group, or participate in Celebrate Recovery or similar ministries. We need each other’s encouragement and accountability.
- Draw Near to God: James 4:8 promises, “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.” The closer we stay to God, the less power temptation has over us. Make time for prayer, Scripture, and worship.
- Remember God’s Faithfulness: Reflect on how God has provided and delivered you in the past. Our 100-year church history is filled with stories of God’s provision during trials and temptations. Let this be your encouragement.
Conclusion: Trusting God for the Next 100 Years
As we look back on a century of faithfulness at Lakeview Christian Church, we see a community that has stood on biblical truth, loved all generations, and changed lives through Jesus’ love. The God who has sustained us for 100 years will carry us forward as we continue to trust Him—especially in moments of temptation.
When you hear the whispers of temptation, let your faith answer boldly: “My God is good. His way is better. I trust Him.” Don’t walk this journey alone. Whether you’re celebrating or struggling, there’s a place for you here to find hope and support.
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for Your unchanging goodness and Your faithfulness through every generation. Help us to recognize temptation early, to trust in Your perfect gifts, and to lean on Your strength when we are weak. Surround us with community, fill us with Your Word, and guide us to honor You in every choice. May Lakeview Christian Church continue to shine Your light and love for the next 100 years and beyond. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
At Lakeview Christian Church, our centennial celebration is more than just a look back—it’s a call to live out a faith that makes a difference every day. As we reflect on the words of Pastor Jim Gindlesberger, we’re reminded that temptation is a universal experience, and everyday faith is what equips us to face it, not just on Sundays, but at work, at home, and in every unseen moment.
“Temptation shows us the pleasure and hides the consequences, the things that will eventually bring destruction. God’s commands require us to say no to what looks attractive in the moment and yes to what ultimately leads to eternal life.”
This message is as relevant on a Monday morning as it is on a Sunday afternoon, and it’s at the heart of our mission: Be the change as Jesus has changed us. At Lakeview, we seek to live out this transformation through our “Just 3” model—Study, Share, and Serve.
The Deceptive Nature of Temptation
Temptation is powerful because it offers short-term pleasure while masking long-term consequences. We see this pattern from the very beginning—Eve in the garden, lured by the forbidden fruit, and each of us, daily, facing choices that test our resolve.
James 1:14-15 (ESV) warns us:
“But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. Then desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it is fully grown brings forth death.”
Temptation is never just about the action—it’s about what’s happening in our hearts. It promises satisfaction but ultimately delivers disappointment or even destruction.
Four Questions to Disarm Temptation
Pastor Jim challenged us to ask four questions whenever temptation whispers in our ear:
- What is it?
Identify the temptation clearly. Naming it brings it into the light. - What’s this temptation promising me?
Is it promising comfort, escape, power, or control? Recognize the false promise. - What will it cost me?
Every “yes” to temptation comes with a price. What relationships, peace, or integrity are at stake? - What does the Bible say about it?
God’s Word is our ultimate authority. The psalmist writes,“I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.” (Psalm 119:11, ESV) - Do I really believe that God’s way is better?
This is the ultimate test of faith. Do we trust that God’s path leads to true and lasting joy?
Everyday Faith: Not Just For Sundays
Faith isn’t just for special occasions or when life is going smoothly. Pastor Jim reminded us that “everyday faith recognizes temptation and trusts God’s goodness.” This means living out faith in the small, unseen moments—at work, in the car, or when no one is watching.
Jesus modeled this for us. In the wilderness, tempted by Satan, He responded not with clever arguments but with the Word of God (Matthew 4:1-11, ESV). He trusted His Father’s goodness above the empty promises of the enemy.
The “Just 3” Model: Your Next Step in Discipleship
At Lakeview Christian Church, we believe in practical steps for spiritual growth. Our “Just 3” model is simple but transformative:
Study: Love and Know God
Intentional Bible study is the foundation. When we study God’s Word, we see the truth about temptation, about ourselves, and about God’s goodness.
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105, ESV)
Share: Know and Love Others
Faith flourishes in community. Share your struggles and victories with trusted friends. Confession and encouragement break the power of secrecy.
“Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed.” (James 5:16, ESV)
Serve: Love in Action
Serving others redirects our focus from self to others. Love in action is a powerful antidote to selfish desires.
“For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.” (Galatians 5:13, ESV)
Be the Change: From Temptation to Transformation
As we celebrate 100 years of God’s faithfulness at Lakeview Christian Church, let’s commit to being the change—as Jesus has changed us. When temptation comes:
- Study God’s Word to know what is true.
- Share your journey with others; don’t walk alone.
- Serve in love, putting God’s goodness on display.
Let’s be a church that not only overcomes temptation but also points others to the eternal life found only in Jesus Christ.
When life gets hard, it’s tempting to just grit our teeth and hope the storm will pass. But at Lakeview Christian Church, we believe God has something better in mind: He wants us to grow, not just go, through our trials. Our mission is to “be the change as Jesus has changed us”—and often, that change happens in the crucible of suffering.
The Choice: Bitter or Better?
Pastor Jim puts it plainly:
“There’s a difference between going through something and growing through it. Two people can go through similar situations—one comes out bitter, the other becomes better.”
James 1:2–4 (ESV) calls us to a radical perspective:
“Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.”
James doesn’t say the trial itself is good, but what God does in us through it can be. We have a choice: Will we emerge bitter, or better?
Joseph: From the Pit to Maturity
The Old Testament gives us a vivid example in the story of Joseph (Genesis 37–50). Joseph’s life was a roller coaster of highs and lows:
- Jacob’s favorite son, given a coat of many colors.
- Betrayed by his own brothers, sold into slavery.
- Rose to prominence in Potiphar’s house, only to be falsely accused and thrown in jail.
- Forgotten in prison, seemingly abandoned by God and man.
Yet, Joseph’s story is not one of defeat, but of growth and redemption. In prison, Joseph was tested to his core. He endured isolation, injustice, and disappointment. But he didn’t waste the trial. He chose faithfulness, integrity, and perseverance. Over time, God shaped his character, preparing him for a position of influence that would eventually save nations.
At the end of his journey, Joseph could say to his brothers:
“As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today.” (Genesis 50:20, ESV)
Growing on the Inside
What changed? Pastor Jim points out,
“There’s a difference between what happens on the inside while we’re going through it. And I think that’s the key.”
Maturity is not automatic. It comes as we lean into God, trust His promises, and allow Him to work in us, even when we feel forgotten or misunderstood. Like Joseph, we may not see God’s purpose in the moment, but we can trust His faithfulness.
Study, Share, Serve: The Pathway to Growth
At Lakeview Christian Church, we encourage everyone facing a trial to embrace the “Just 3”:
- Study: Open God’s Word daily. Let Scripture interpret your circumstances, not the other way around. Joseph’s story, along with countless others in the Bible, reminds us that God is always working, even in silence.
- “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105, ESV)
- Share: Don’t isolate yourself in hardship. Share your struggles and victories with others. When Joseph was in prison, he used his gifts to interpret dreams for others, and in doing so, God opened doors for him.
- “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2, ESV)
- Serve: Use your pain as a platform for ministry. Serving others in your own struggle brings meaning to hardship and turns your focus outward. Joseph’s willingness to serve, even in prison, prepared him for greater responsibility.
- “As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace.” (1 Peter 4:10, ESV)
Be the Change—Let God Grow You
Don’t waste the trial. Let God use it to deepen your faith, refine your character, and prepare you for the next step. Joseph’s life—and James’s teaching—shows us that the greatest growth often comes out of the hardest seasons.
At Lakeview Christian Church, we’re here to walk with you, pray with you, and help you grow through whatever you’re facing. Let’s be the change, as Jesus has changed us—studying to know God, sharing to know others, and serving to put love in action.
“Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial.” (James 1:12, ESV)
These words from James echo through every season of life, offering hope and perspective especially when we face adversity. At Lakeview Christian Church, we believe that faith is not just tested in the fire—it is refined by it. Our calling is to “be the change as Jesus has changed us,” and perseverance is a vital part of that transformation.
The Kiln and the Stamp: Lessons from Ancient Pottery
In Pastor Jim’s sermon, he shares a powerful illustration from the world of ancient pottery. In those days, a potter would carefully shape a vessel and then place it in a kiln to be fired. Only after enduring the intense heat, the vessel would be examined. If it emerged uncracked and whole, it was stamped “dokimos”—approved, tested, and worthy. If it cracked under pressure, it was labeled “adokimos,” disapproved, unable to fulfill its purpose.
Which stamp do you want on your life? The answer is not found in avoiding the kiln, but in persevering through it.
James 1:12 (ESV) promises:
“Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.”
Trials Are Real, But They Are Not Forever
Life is filled with real pain—loss, illness, disappointment, and heartache. Jim acknowledges, “Some of you are probably going through things right now. I know somebody I just talked to today is going through something that’s terrible, but it’s not a forever.” God never minimizes our struggles, but He reminds us through James that they are temporary. Our hope is not anchored in present comfort, but in the eternal reward Christ promises.
Paul echoes this in 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 (ESV):
“So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen.”
Spiritual Joy and Confidence: Finding Blessing in the Fire
James tells us there is blessing in perseverance—not just after the trial, but even in the midst of it. The Greek word “dokimos” reminds us that the trials we endure are not meant to break us, but to reveal the genuine character of our faith.
- Spiritual Joy: True joy isn’t dependent on circumstances. It’s the deep assurance that God is with us and for us, even when life hurts.
- Inner Assurance: Perseverance produces confidence. When we stand the test, we discover a peace that surpasses understanding (Philippians 4:7, ESV).
- Reward: James promises a “crown of life” not just for the super-saints, but for all who love God and cling to Him in faith.
Just 3: How We Stand Strong Together
At Lakeview Christian Church, we lean into the “Just 3” calling—Study, Share, Serve—to help each other persevere.
- Study: Dive deep into God’s Word. The Bible is filled with stories of people who were “tested in the kiln”—Joseph, Daniel, Paul, and most of all, Jesus. As we study Scripture, our faith is anchored in truth, not tossed by feelings (Romans 10:17, ESV).
- Share: Perseverance is not a solo journey. We share our burdens, pray for one another, and encourage each other to keep going when the fire is hot (Hebrews 10:24-25, ESV).
- Serve: Trials often birth compassion. When we serve others out of our own pain, our perspective shifts and we become agents of hope in a hurting world (2 Corinthians 1:3-4, ESV).
Be the Change—Shaped by Fire, Stamped by Grace
The world is watching to see how Christians respond under pressure. Do we crack, or do we stand firm? At Lakeview Christian Church, we want the “dokimos” stamp—lives marked by steadfastness, hope, and love in action.
No matter what you’re facing, remember: trials are real, but they are not forever. Persevere in faith, trust God’s promises, and look ahead to the crown of life that awaits all who love Him.
Let’s study to know and love God, share to know and love others, and serve as love in action. Be the change, as Jesus has changed you.
Are you facing a season of difficulty, uncertainty, or pain? If so, you’re not alone. In our latest message from James 1, we explored how the Christian life isn’t about escaping trials, but about discovering a resilient, everyday faith that grows stronger—even through hardship.
Main Point: Joy in the Midst of Trials
James, the half-brother of Jesus, opens his letter with a bold instruction:
“Count it all joy, my brothers and sisters, when you encounter trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” (James 1:2-3)
This isn’t a call to enjoy suffering, but an invitation to trust that God is working through our trials to produce something lasting—perseverance, maturity, and hope. Trials, whether they come from loss, hardship, or even our own mistakes, are opportunities for God to shape us more into the image of Christ.
As we saw through stories like Joseph in Genesis 37–50, Paul’s perspective in 2 Corinthians 4:16–18, and Jesus’ endurance on the cross (Hebrews 12:2), God can redeem our pain for greater purposes. What feels like defeat can become the soil for spiritual victory.
Action Steps: How to Live Out Everyday Faith
How do we respond when life gets tough? Here are practical steps, grounded in James 1 and this week’s sermon:
- Choose Joy with Purpose:
Joy in trials doesn’t mean pretending everything is fine. It means trusting God’s purpose is bigger than your pain. Ask, “God, what are you wanting to produce in me through this?” rather than just “Why is this happening?” - Persevere for Maturity:
Don’t waste your trial. Allow perseverance to finish its work. As the sermon said, “There’s a difference between going through something and growing through it.” Let adversity grow your character and faith. - Ask God for Wisdom:
James promises, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously… and it will be given to him.” (James 1:5) Be honest about your need for guidance. Pray in faith, and look for how God answers—through Scripture, godly counsel, or a quiet conviction. - Refuse a Circumstance-Driven Faith:
Don’t let your faith rise and fall with your circumstances. James warns against being “double-minded.” Anchor your trust in God’s goodness, not in what’s happening around you. - Remember the Eternal Perspective:
Earthly trials are temporary; God’s promise is eternal life—“the crown of life” (James 1:12). As Paul writes, “For this light momentary affliction is preparing us for an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison.” (2 Cor 4:17)
Conclusion & Prayer
Whatever you’re facing today, know this: your trial isn’t the end of your story. God is with you, working for your good and His glory. True joy is not the absence of difficulty, but the presence of Christ with you in every season.
Let’s pray together:
Heavenly Father,
Thank you for your faithfulness in every season of life. When we face trials, help us to trust your purpose and find deep joy, knowing that you are at work in us. Give us wisdom to navigate our struggles and perseverance to become mature and complete in Christ. Remind us of the eternal hope we have in you. May we encourage one another and grow in faith, for your glory and our good. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
James begins and ends his opening chapter with a bold invitation: to choose joy, not only in the sunshine seasons of life, but right in the middle of life’s storms. At Lakeview Christian Church, we believe this is the kind of faith that changes lives—not just ours, but the world’s. Our mission is simple but profound: Be the change as Jesus has changed us. We do this by focusing on “Just 3” things: Study, Share, Serve.
A Story of Joy in Real Life
Pastor Jim reminds us from his years of teaching junior church:
“I used to stand back there every week and play the guitar, and I think I sang the song, ‘I’ve Got Joy, Joy, Joy, Joy Down in My Heart,’ more times than I ever cared to sing. But now I hear those words and I’m like, that’s what God wants in our life. He wants joy down in our hearts, down in our hearts to stay.”
This isn’t a naive or shallow joy—it’s not about putting on a happy face when life feels broken. True Christian joy is rooted in the deep assurance that God is present, powerful, and loving—even when circumstances are difficult.
James and the Call to Joy
James 1:2-4 (ESV) says:
“Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.”
Notice how James doesn’t shy away from the reality of trials. He assumes we will face them. But he also insists that trials are not wasted in God’s hands. Instead, God uses them to shape us—to form perseverance, character, and maturity.
James, the half-brother of Jesus, knew something about both suffering and steadfastness. He saw his brother endure rejection, mockery, and ultimately crucifixion. As Pastor Jim puts it, “If anyone understood trials and suffering and pain, it was Jesus. Alone in the garden, mocked, beaten, misjudged, crucified, spear in his side, buried.” Yet, even in this, Jesus modeled joy.
The Example of Jesus: Joy Set Before Him
The author of Hebrews describes Jesus’ attitude toward his own suffering:
“…who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.” (Hebrews 12:2, ESV)
Jesus’ joy wasn’t in the pain itself, but in the purpose and promise beyond the pain—the redemption of humanity, the victory over sin and death, and the eternal hope he now offers to all who trust him. This is the same joy James calls us to embrace, even when life is hard.
Study: Joy Begins with Knowing God
At Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, we believe that joy springs from studying God’s Word. When we read Scripture, we hear again and again that God is faithful, that he cares for us, and that he is working all things for our good—even the things we don’t understand.
James 1:5 (ESV) encourages us:
“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.”
In seasons of trial, we’re invited to lean into God’s wisdom, to seek his perspective, and to trust his promises.
Share: Bearing Burdens Together
Joy is not a solo pursuit. The Christian life is meant to be shared. We’re called to be honest about our struggles, to pray for one another, and to remind each other of God’s faithfulness.
Galatians 6:2 (ESV) says:
“Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.”
When we share our stories—both our joys and our sorrows—we encourage others and find strength for ourselves. In community, we become living reminders that God is present and that we are not alone.
Serve: Love in Action
Serving others is one of the most tangible ways we experience and express joy. When we step outside of ourselves to meet someone else’s need, our hearts are lifted and our perspective shifts.
As 1 Peter 4:10 (ESV) instructs:
“As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace.”
Serving is love in action, and it’s a core part of the “Just 3” at Lakeview Christian Church. It’s how we put our faith to work, and it’s often where joy is rediscovered—even in the midst of hardship.
Be the Change—Because Jesus Has Changed Us
The world is watching to see if joy is real. When they see a church that suffers yet sings, that struggles yet serves, that endures yet encourages—then they see the difference Jesus makes.
James 1:12 (ESV) promises:
“Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.”
Let’s be the change. Let’s study to know and love God, share to know and love others, and serve to put love in action. In every trial, may we discover the joy that Jesus has promised—a joy down in our hearts to stay.
Loved Without Performance
At Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, we want you to know a liberating truth: God doesn’t care if you’re successful, have a perfect marriage, or if your children are great students. He isn’t waiting for your faith to be on the mountaintop. As Pastor Jim so clearly states, “We don’t have to perform for God.” This truth from Psalm 139 changes everything about how we see ourselves and live out our faith.
The world constantly tells us we must achieve, impress, or pretend to be worthy of love. But God’s message is the opposite. Psalm 139 reminds us:
“O Lord, you have searched me and known me! … Even before a word is on my tongue, behold, O Lord, you know it altogether.”
(Psalm 139:1, 4, ESV)
God knows us completely. We don’t have to pretend. We don’t have to impress. We get to be just us—and He loves us as we are.
Loved in Every Circumstance
God’s love doesn’t shrink back in the face of our fears, failures, disappointments, temptations, questions, loneliness, grief, or even our sin. Pastor Jim’s words echo the heart of the gospel: “He loves us as we are…in our fears, in our failures, in our disappointments, in our temptations, in our questions, in our loneliness, in our grief, and yes, even in our sin. God loves us, and He says, come.”
This is the wonder of it all. The God who created the universe invites us into His presence, not because we’ve gotten it all together, but because He wants to meet us exactly where we are.
“But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
(Romans 5:8, ESV)
No Need to Pretend
At Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, we believe authenticity is the soil where real faith grows. God’s love dismantles the need for masks or posturing. You don’t have to hide your struggles or pretend to be someone you’re not.
“For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.”
(Psalm 139:13-14, ESV)
He knows every part of you—the good, the bad, the broken—and still calls you beloved. In Jesus, we see this love in action: He ate with outcasts, touched the sick, welcomed the overlooked, and forgave the broken.
The Invitation to Change
God loves us as we are—but He doesn’t leave us there. His love is transformative. When we come honestly before Him, He begins the work of renewal from the inside out. It’s not about striving to impress, but about surrendering to His grace.
“Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting!”
(Psalm 139:23-24, ESV)
Be the Change: The “Just 3” Way
Our mission at Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes is to “Be the Change as Jesus Has Changed Us.” This happens as we embrace God’s love, live authentically, and invite others to do the same. We put this into practice through our “Just 3” approach:
Study: To Love and Know God
We study the Bible not to earn God’s approval, but to discover His heart for us. God’s Word reveals that we are already fully known and fully loved.
“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly…”
(Colossians 3:16, ESV)
Share: To Know and Love Others
We share our lives, our struggles, and our stories. Authentic relationships grow when we are real with one another, reflecting the love and acceptance we’ve received from God.
“Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed.”
(James 5:16, ESV)
Serve: Love in Action
We serve not to gain God’s favor, but as an overflow of the love we’ve experienced. Serving others is the natural response when we know we’re loved unconditionally.
“By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”
(John 13:35, ESV)
Rest, Belong, and Grow
If you’re weary from performing or pretending, we welcome you at Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes. Here, you can rest in the truth that you are enough, just as you are, because God’s love is bigger than your past, your pain, or your shortcomings.
Let’s “Be the Change” together—a church family where nobody has to pretend, and everyone can experience the wonder of being fully known and fully loved.