At Lakeview Christian Church, our mission is clear and transformative: Be the change as Jesus has changed us. We’re called to not only experience God’s love but to let it ripple through every area of our lives and community. Central to this calling is our “Just 3” approach—Study, Share, Serve—which helps us grow in faith, connect with others, and turn love into action.
But how do we praise God, especially when life’s circumstances aren’t ideal? The Psalms remind us that authentic praise isn’t rooted in how we feel or what’s happening around us, but in the unchanging character of God Himself.
Created for Praise, Called for Purpose
Scripture teaches that every person is made in the image of God (Genesis 1:27). This profound truth means that our value and purpose are anchored in Him. As one recent message at Lakeview Christian Church reminded us:
“He has created us, by the way, in his own image. He has sustained us. He has forgiven us. He has provided for us. He has protected us. He has answered our prayers, and he carried us through any difficult situation, right? And even if God did any other thing for us, and even if he never did anything for us, he still deserves our praise just because of who he is.”
This perspective echoes the heart of Psalm 150:
“Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord.” (Psalm 150:6, NIV)
Our praise flows not just from God’s blessings, but from His very nature—faithful, loving, and holy.
Worship That Goes Beyond Circumstances
It’s easy to worship when life is good, but biblical praise runs deeper. Sometimes, people come to church to thank God only when things are going well. But as the message continues:
“So many times people walk into church and they praise God when things go really, really well… And when you do that, you’re praising God because of your circumstances that God’s given to you, not for who he is. There is a drastic difference in what that looks like… biblical praise is this: God, I praise you not just for your blessings, but I praise you because you are worthy of my praise.”
This shift in mindset is transformative. Hebrews 13:15 encourages us:
“Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that openly profess his name.” (NIV)
When we praise God for who He is—Creator, Sustainer, Redeemer—our worship becomes steadfast, authentic, and life-changing.
The “Just 3” Pathway: Study, Share, Serve
At Lakeview Christian Church, we believe that to truly “be the change,” we must engage with God and our community through intentional steps:
1. Study – Knowing and Loving God
We commit to studying God’s Word, not just as an intellectual exercise, but as a way to deepen our love for Him.
“Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” (Psalm 119:105, NIV)
Through Bible studies, devotionals, and Sunday teachings, we anchor our lives in God’s truth.
2. Share – Loving and Knowing Others
We are called to share our lives, our stories, and the hope of Jesus with others. Genuine community means listening, encouraging, and walking alongside one another.
“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.” (Hebrews 10:24, NIV)
Sharing is how we build meaningful relationships and reflect Christ’s love to Portage Lakes and beyond.
3. Serve – Love in Action
Faith is made visible through service. We serve in our neighborhoods, our church, and wherever God leads—putting love into action as Jesus taught.
“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” (1 Peter 4:10, NIV)
Serving isn’t just a task; it’s a lifestyle that points people to the love of Christ.
