Summary

So often, we find ourselves longing for God’s promises—seeking, finding, and desiring security. Yet, the enemy is content to let us have spiritual moments on Sundays, as long as he can keep us distracted and anxious the rest of the week. The promise of God’s presence is not just a comfort for the group, but a deeply personal reality for each of us. God’s presence is what allows us to stand in the middle of life’s storms with a calm heart, even when our circumstances seem overwhelming. Fear often comes from what we imagine might happen, not what actually is. But God’s presence is a steadying force, reminding us that we are never alone, no matter what we face.

God is not just a distant coach in our corner; He is willing to step into the ring and fight our battles if we surrender control to Him. Like David facing Goliath, victory is not about our strength or skill, but about God’s power working through us. The Holy Spirit, given to every believer, is the very presence of God dwelling within us. Yet, we often miss this because we expect God to communicate in ways that fit our preferences, or we get distracted by the noise of our own desires and gratifications.

Living according to the flesh means setting our minds on self-gratification, whether that’s pleasure, success, or even just comfort. But those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of God—love, joy, peace, patience, and the other fruits of the Spirit. Wealth, success, and blessings are not the problem; it’s when those things own us, rather than being used for God’s glory. The reality is, if you are in Christ, you are not in the flesh but in the Spirit. Yet, you must choose to walk in that reality, to surrender your will and desires, and to experience the freedom Christ has already given you.

True change and freedom come not from religious rituals or emotional experiences, but from genuine surrender and obedience to God. Brokenness before God is not just about feeling sorry or emotional; it’s about a willingness to do whatever it takes to obey Him, even if it means letting go of things we hold dear. The more we draw near to God, the less power sin has over us. Submitting to God—truly obeying and humbling ourselves—opens us to His presence and the transformation He brings. God is always present, always willing, but the question is whether we will be present with Him, surrendering our lives daily to His will.

Key Takeaways

- The Promise of God’s Presence Is Personal
God’s presence is not just a collective experience but an individual reality. He is powerful and omnipresent enough to be your personal God, meeting you exactly where you are. This means you can stand in the midst of any storm with a calm heart, knowing He is with you, not just in theory but in the deepest reality of your life. [03:51]

- Surrender Allows God to Fight for You
Like a coach who steps into the ring, God is willing to fight your battles if you relinquish control. True victory comes not from your own strength or strategies, but from allowing God to direct and empower you. Surrender is not passive; it is an active choice to let God lead, even when it means letting go of your own plans and desires. [05:54]

- Living by the Spirit Requires Intentional Focus
Setting your mind on the things of the Spirit is a daily, intentional act. The flesh constantly seeks gratification, but the Spirit calls us to higher things—love, joy, peace, and obedience. Blessings and resources are meant to be used for God’s glory, not to become idols that distract us from Him. [19:31]

- Brokenness Before God Brings True Change
Emotional responses are not the measure of true repentance or transformation; actions are. Genuine brokenness leads to a willingness to do whatever it takes to obey God, even if it means letting go of comfort or cherished things. The more you draw near to God, the less sin controls you, and the more you experience lasting change. [40:24]

- Submission and Humility Open the Door to God’s Presence
God’s presence is constant, but experiencing it requires humility and submission. It is not about doing all the “right things” in your own strength, but about surrendering your will and obeying God’s direction. Drawing near to God, cleansing your heart, and submitting to His authority is the path to freedom and transformation. [44:08]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[01:19] - The Promise of God’s Presence in the Storm
[02:52] - Facing Fear and the Enemy’s Tactics
[03:51] - God’s Presence Is Personal
[04:57] - God in Your Corner: The Boxing Analogy
[05:54] - Letting God Fight Your Battles
[07:55] - David, Goliath, and the Power of God
[09:15] - The Holy Spirit: Never Alone
[11:15] - How God Communicates
[12:27] - Living According to the Flesh
[19:31] - Living According to the Spirit
[22:08] - Freedom in Christ: Living in the Spirit
[24:23] - Religion vs. Relationship
[26:42] - No Mediator but Christ
[27:55] - The Spirit Gives Life
[28:50] - Practicing God’s Presence
[34:06] - God’s Determination to Be With You
[35:31] - The Cost of True Surrender
[40:24] - Brokenness and Lasting Change
[42:07] - Submitting to God and Resisting the Devil
[44:08] - Humility and Drawing Near to God
[47:02] - Cleansing and Purifying Your Heart
[48:14] - Surrender and Ongoing Obedience
[50:06] - God’s Spirit Dwells in You

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide: The Promise of God’s Presence

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### Bible Reading

Romans 8:5-11 (ESV)
> For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace. For the mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God, for it does not submit to God's law; indeed, it cannot. Those who are in the flesh cannot please God.
>
> You, however, are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if in fact the Spirit of God dwells in you. Anyone who does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him. But if Christ is in you, although the body is dead because of sin, the Spirit is life because of righteousness. If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit who dwells in you.

James 4:7-8 (ESV)
> Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.

Matthew 28:18-20 (ESV)
> And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

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### Observation Questions

1. According to Romans 8, what is the difference between living according to the flesh and living according to the Spirit? What are the results of each?
2. In James 4:7-8, what are the steps given for drawing near to God and resisting the devil?
3. The sermon compared God’s presence to a coach who is willing to step into the ring and fight for us. What does the pastor say is required for God to fight our battles? [[05:54]]
4. In Matthew 28:20, what promise does Jesus give to his followers as they go out to make disciples?

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### Interpretation Questions

1. The pastor said, “God’s presence is not just a comfort for the group, but a deeply personal reality for each of us.” Why is it important to see God’s presence as personal and not just collective? [[03:51]]
2. What does it mean to “set your mind on the things of the Spirit” in daily life? How is this different from just avoiding obvious sins? [[19:31]]
3. The sermon emphasized that true change comes from brokenness and surrender, not just emotional experiences. How can someone tell the difference between genuine surrender and just feeling emotional? [[40:24]]
4. The pastor said, “God is always present, always willing, but the question is whether we will be present with Him, surrendering our lives daily to His will.” What does it look like to be “present with God” in practical terms? [[44:08]]

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### Application Questions

1. The enemy is happy to let us have spiritual moments on Sundays as long as he can keep us distracted and anxious the rest of the week. What are some specific distractions or anxieties that pull you away from God’s presence during the week? What is one step you can take to address one of these this week? [[01:19]]
2. The sermon said, “Surrender is not passive; it is an active choice to let God lead, even when it means letting go of your own plans and desires.” Is there an area of your life where you are holding on to control? What would it look like to actively surrender that area to God? [[05:54]]
3. Living by the Spirit requires intentional focus. What is one practical way you can set your mind on the things of the Spirit each day? (For example: a morning prayer, a reminder on your phone, a specific act of kindness, etc.) [[19:31]]
4. The pastor shared that true brokenness before God is shown by actions, not just emotions. Is there something God is asking you to do that you have been resisting? What is one step you can take toward obedience this week? [[40:24]]
5. The sermon talked about using blessings and resources for God’s glory, not letting them “own” us. Is there a possession, achievement, or comfort that has become too important in your life? How can you use it for God’s purposes instead? [[12:27]]
6. James 4:8 says, “Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you.” What is one way you can intentionally draw near to God this week? (Be specific: time, place, method.) [[44:08]]
7. The pastor said, “God is always present, but the question is whether we will be present with Him.” What is one habit or practice you can start (or restart) to help you be more aware of God’s presence in your daily life? [[44:08]]

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Closing Prayer Suggestion:
Invite group members to pray for one another, specifically asking God to help each person surrender an area of their life, draw near to Him, and experience His personal presence this week.

Devotional

Day 1: The Promise of God's Presence Is Personal and Constant
God’s presence is not just a general truth for all believers, but a deeply personal promise for each individual who follows Christ. No matter what storm you face or what fears threaten to overwhelm you, God is with you—right now, right where you are. He is not distant or distracted; He is your God, attentive to your needs, your struggles, and your heart. Even when you feel alone or uncertain, you can stand firm knowing that the Creator of the universe is in your corner, ready to bring peace in the midst of chaos and to walk with you through every trial. [03:51]

Matthew 28:18-20 (ESV)
And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

Reflection: In what area of your life do you most need to remember that God’s presence is personal and constant—how can you invite Him into that specific situation today?


Day 2: Living by the Spirit, Not the Flesh
There is a daily choice between living according to the desires of the flesh—seeking self-gratification, comfort, or control—and living according to the Spirit, which means setting your mind on the things of God and allowing His Spirit to direct your actions. The things of the flesh may promise satisfaction, but they ultimately leave you empty and enslaved. In contrast, living by the Spirit brings true freedom, purpose, and the ability to use every blessing for God’s glory rather than your own. Examine your heart: are you letting your desires or God’s desires lead your life? [19:31]

Romans 8:5, 9 (ESV)
For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit... You, however, are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if in fact the Spirit of God dwells in you. Anyone who does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him.

Reflection: What is one practical way you can shift your focus from self-gratification to seeking the things of the Spirit today?


Day 3: Surrender and Submission Lead to Transformation
True change and freedom come not from trying harder in your own strength, but from surrendering your will and submitting to God in obedience. It is not enough to simply want to change or to feel sorry for your struggles; real transformation happens when you lay everything down before God, trusting that His way is better than your own. This surrender is not a one-time event but a daily choice to submit, resist the enemy, and walk in humility, knowing that God’s grace is sufficient for every weakness. [42:07]

James 4:7-8 (ESV)
Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.

Reflection: What is one area where you need to stop making excuses and fully surrender to God’s will—what step of obedience can you take today?


Day 4: Brokenness in God’s Presence Brings Lasting Change
Brokenness is not about emotional displays or temporary regret, but about a deep, genuine openness before God that leads to real change. When you allow yourself to be truly broken in God’s presence—acknowledging your need, your sin, and your inability to fix yourself—you open the door for God to transform your life from the inside out. In His presence, the grip of sin loosens, and you begin to experience freedom and peace that cannot be found anywhere else. [41:18]

Psalm 51:17 (ESV)
The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.

Reflection: Is there a sin, habit, or hurt you’ve been holding onto—will you bring it honestly before God today and ask Him to break you in a way that leads to true change?


Day 5: You Are God’s Temple—His Spirit Dwells in You
As a follower of Christ, you are not left to navigate life alone; you are God’s temple, and His Spirit lives within you. This means you have access to His power, guidance, and comfort at all times—not just in church or during spiritual highs, but every moment of every day. God’s indwelling presence is a gift and a calling: to live in a way that honors Him, to seek Him in the quietness of your heart, and to remember that you are never abandoned or forgotten. [50:06]

1 Corinthians 3:16 (ESV)
Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?

Reflection: How can you intentionally create space today to recognize and honor the Holy Spirit’s presence within you—what will you do to dwell with God in the ordinary moments?

Quotes

God is that powerful, that capable, and that omnipresent that he can be your personal God. But his way, not your way. Keep in mind, if it's your personal God, your way, that's an idol. But when it is your personal God, his way, it's the power of God in your corner. [00:04:35] (23 seconds)  #HisWayNotYours Edit Clip | Translate Clip

Let me put it in this regard. This place, Earth  existence. It's not your home If you're a follower of Christ. This world is not your home. Now I know the nature of humanity Is to go directly to the pastor and say, "Well what are you saying? I can't own a boat?" No I didn't say that I said the boat can't own you. That's what I said If God gives you blessings use that blessing to glorify your father in heaven. [00:17:42] (33 seconds)  #BlessingsNotOwnership Edit Clip | Translate Clip

You are not in the flesh. You are in the Spirit. But you have to choose to be in the Spirit. You're in the Spirit, but you have to choose to experience it. Because sometimes we keep giving in to our gratification. We keep giving in to what we want. We keep saying to ourselves, but I like it this way. Or I think this is better. Or I can't stop. I hate that statement. You know, everybody can stop what they're doing through the power of Christ. [00:23:00] (35 seconds)  #ChooseSpiritLife Edit Clip | Translate Clip

There is no mediator between God and man except Christ Jesus. And yet people go to churches every single week and stand in a box and tell a guy about their sin to which the guy says, say a bunch of things and you're good to go. There is nothing biblical about that. [00:25:16] (18 seconds)  #ChristIsTheOnlyMediator Edit Clip | Translate Clip

If His Spirit dwells in you, you have Him in you. He doesn't leave you or forsake you. He doesn't walk away. He doesn't go away. He doesn't disappear, and He doesn't go on vacation. He is your God. And that is His choice. He's not forced to it. He doesn't owe it to you. He's determined to be there. But the question is whether you'll be there too. [00:33:51] (31 seconds)  #GodNeverLeaves Edit Clip | Translate Clip

Brokenness brings change. Brokenness only comes in the presence of God. You know, one of the things people make the mistake of all the time is they say about God, God can't be in the presence of sin. Stop limiting God. You're missing the point when you say that. It is not God can't be in the presence of sin. It is that sin cannot be in the presence of God. Here's what I mean. The more you draw into God, the less sin has control over you. The more you stand in the presence of God, the less sin has control over you. [00:40:30] (35 seconds)  #ChooseGodsPresence Edit Clip | Translate Clip

When we submit to God and we surrender to the will of God, God starts showing us that He's always been there. See, God doesn't just show up. It's not like He was somewhere else and now He's there. He's always been there. Now you're just going to start to recognize, realize, and experience His presence. [00:48:45] (19 seconds)  #HumilityBringsChange Edit Clip | Translate Clip

Do you not know that you are God's temple and that God's spirit dwells in you? [00:50:36] (20 seconds) Edit Clip | Translate Clip