SERMON NOTES

RISE

Vision Sunday 2025

RISE: Stepping Into 2025 with Purpose and Vision


Every year, God places a unique vision on the hearts of His people to guide the church forward. This vision may come through scripture, a word, a picture, or a dream. Scripture underscores the importance of having a vision:


“Where there is no prophetic vision the people cast off restraint, but blessed is he who keeps the law.”

— Proverbs 29:18 (NKJV)


This year, our theme is “Rise,” rooted in the powerful words of Ephesians 5:14:


“Wake up, sleeper, rise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.”


This theme serves as both a wake-up call and an invitation to live with hope, purpose, and renewal.


Awakening to God’s Presence


The call to “wake up” is a reminder of God’s constant presence and power. Like Isaiah’s prophecy in Isaiah 9:2:


“The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness, a light has dawned.”


God is here, present among us, illuminating our lives. Even though the Christmas season may be over, Emmanuel—God with us—remains. The call to rise isn’t about hitting snooze on our spiritual lives. It’s about recognizing His light and allowing it to shine in and through us daily.


What Drives You to Rise?


What motivates you to get up each morning? Is it obligations, routines, or goals? Imagine starting each day by embracing God’s light and glory. As Psalm 20:7-8 says:


“Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God. They are brought to their knees and fall, but we rise up and stand firm.”


Trusting God transforms our outlook, giving us the strength to rise above life’s challenges. It inspires us to stand firm, no matter what lies ahead.


Rising as a Church Community


This year, our vision extends to building and reaching communities. We aim to equip every person to fulfill God’s plan for their lives. This includes fostering discipleship, prioritizing prayer, and encouraging participation in life groups.


Prayer remains central to everything we do. We invite you to join our prayer opportunities, whether in-person before service, online midweek, or as part of our intercessory prayer team.


Last year, we witnessed God’s faithfulness through new ministries like pastoral care, outreach and missions, and our choir. This year, we are excited to introduce Chapel Sessions—a laid-back evening service every last Sunday of the month.


But this vision requires all of us. No matter what 2024 held for you, God has called you to rise in 2025.


No Shortcuts to Rising


Rising to the next level God has for us requires effort and intentionality. As Matthew 7:13-14 (MSG) reminds us:


“Don’t look for shortcuts to God. The market is flooded with surefire, easygoing formulas for a successful life… The way to life—to God!—is vigorous and requires total attention.”


There are no shortcuts in our walk with God. Just as physical fitness requires discipline and effort, so does our spiritual growth. We must commit to spending time in prayer, studying His Word, and seeking His presence to experience His goodness in our lives.


Rising Above Challenges


As we embrace this vision, we recognize that spiritual opposition may arise. However, through God’s power, we can declare victory over every obstacle.

• Over your finances: “I will rise again.”

• Over your health: “I will rise again.”

• Over your relationships and family: “I will rise again.”

• Over your career and dreams: “I will rise again.”


When we trust in the Lord, we rise above the challenges of this world and stand firm in His promises.


A Call to Rise


As we step into 2025, let us rise together as individuals and as a church. Let us trust God fully and live victorious, courageous lives. No matter your background, experiences, or circumstances, God has called you to rise.


This year, embrace the vision to rise and stand firm, not by shortcuts but by faith, effort, and trust in God. Together, let us shine His light, build His kingdom, and fulfill His purpose for our lives.


Are you ready to rise in 2025?


Close in prayer:

Father, we declare that every plan of darkness meant to bring us down is defeated in Jesus’ name. We decree and declare over every area of our lives that we will rise again. Strengthen us to trust You fully and walk in the purpose You have for us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Watch the full message here!