Finding Hope and Transformation in Christ's Presence

Summary

Today, we gathered to reflect on what sustains us when life doesn’t seem to get better, when “better” itself feels elusive and subjective. Whether it’s illness, financial strain, grief, or disappointment, each of us carries our own version of struggle. In these moments, the question arises: what keeps us going when we’re faithfully showing up, praying, and trusting, but still feel like we’re waiting in the dark?

Paul’s words to the Colossians meet us right in that darkness. Writing from prison, he doesn’t offer easy answers or promises of quick relief. Instead, he reveals a profound mystery: Christ lives in you. This is not just a comforting thought, but a transformative reality. The indwelling presence of Jesus is our hope—not just for a future glory, but for strength, peace, and purpose in the present, even when circumstances remain unchanged.

This hope is not the absence of suffering, but the presence of Christ within suffering. Paul’s own life testifies that the presence of Christ doesn’t guarantee a pain-free existence, but it does mean we are never alone. In our weakness, Christ’s strength is made perfect. Our purpose is not simply to be saved and hold on until heaven, but to be transformed, to become more like Christ through every season, especially the hard ones.

Transformation is not a solo journey. Paul agonizes for the church, longing for believers to be encouraged and knit together in love. Spiritual maturity is deeply relational; we are called to belong to Jesus and to one another. This belonging protects us from being deceived by the world’s well-crafted arguments and helps us bear fruit together. We must resist the temptation to hide our struggles, instead sharing our unfinished stories with each other, so we can support, encourage, and grow together.

As we go forward, may we rest in the truth that Christ is in us, shaping us, and calling us to belong deeply—to Him and to each other. Let’s lay down our pride, let others into our unfinished stories, and trust that even in the midst, Christ is at work.

Key Takeaways

- Christ’s Presence Is Our Hope, Not Circumstances
True hope is not found in the improvement of our circumstances, but in the indwelling presence of Christ. Even when life doesn’t get “better” by our standards, Jesus within us provides a foundation of strength, peace, and assurance that we are never alone. This hope is active and sustaining, regardless of what we face. [37:53]

- Suffering Is Not Evidence of God’s Absence
Paul’s life and words remind us that suffering is not a sign that God has abandoned us. Instead, Christ is most present and active in our pain, forming something deeper within us. The presence of Christ in suffering transforms our experience, offering peace that surpasses understanding and a purpose that transcends our pain. [45:47]

- Transformation Is the Purpose, Not Just Survival
Our calling is not merely to endure until heaven, but to be transformed into Christ’s likeness. The journey of faith is about ongoing growth, where Christ’s power works within us, especially in our weakness. Every struggle becomes the soil where Christ’s strength is cultivated and our character is shaped. [49:14]

- Spiritual Maturity Requires Community
We are not meant to walk the path of transformation alone. Paul’s longing for believers to be “knit together by strong ties of love” shows that spiritual maturity is deeply relational. Belonging to one another provides encouragement, accountability, and protection from deception, allowing us to bear fruit together. [57:16]

- Vulnerability and Shared Stories Foster Growth
It is a trick of the enemy to believe we must hide our struggles until our stories are finished. Sharing our unfinished testimonies with others breaks the power of pride and isolation, inviting support and authentic growth. When we let others into our mess, we create space for belonging, healing, and fruitfulness that points to Christ’s glory. [01:05:02]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[28:30] - Announcements and Community Life
[30:19] - Opening Question: What Keeps You Going?
[32:24] - Real-Life Stories of Suffering
[36:18] - Paul’s Context: Hope from Prison
[37:00] - The Mystery: Christ in You
[39:33] - What It Means for Christ to Live in Us
[41:35] - Beyond Footprints: Jesus Within
[44:44] - Hope in the Midst, Not Just the End
[46:56] - The Purpose of Christ’s Indwelling
[49:14] - Strength in Weakness
[53:24] - Markers of Spiritual Maturity
[55:41] - Community: Transformation Together
[58:42] - The Danger of Isolation and Deception
[01:03:34] - The Power of Sharing Unfinished Stories
[01:06:40] - Worship Response: Yet Not I, But Through Christ in Me
[01:07:24] - Reflection Questions and Sending

Study Guide

Small Group Bible Study Guide: “Christ in You: Hope in the Midst”

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### Bible Reading

Colossians 1:24–2:5 (ESV)

> 24 Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, and in my flesh I am filling up what is lacking in Christ’s afflictions for the sake of his body, that is, the church, 25 of which I became a minister according to the stewardship from God that was given to me for you, to make the word of God fully known, 26 the mystery hidden for ages and generations but now revealed to his saints. 27 To them God chose to make known how great among the Gentiles are the riches of the glory of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. 28 Him we proclaim, warning everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone mature in Christ. 29 For this I toil, struggling with all his energy that he powerfully works within me.
>
> 1 For I want you to know how great a struggle I have for you and for those at Laodicea and for all who have not seen me face to face, 2 that their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love, to reach all the riches of full assurance of understanding and the knowledge of God’s mystery, which is Christ, 3 in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. 4 I say this in order that no one may delude you with plausible arguments. 5 For though I am absent in body, yet I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see your good order and the firmness of your faith in Christ.

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### Observation Questions

1. According to Colossians 1:27, what is the “mystery” that Paul says has now been revealed to God’s people?
2. In Colossians 1:28-29, what is Paul’s goal for the believers, and whose power does he depend on to reach that goal?
3. What does Paul say he wants for the church in Colossians 2:2, and how does he describe the way believers should be connected to each other?
4. The sermon mentioned that Paul wrote these words from prison. How does knowing Paul’s situation affect the way we read his message about hope and suffering? [[36:18]]

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### Interpretation Questions

1. The sermon says, “Christ lives in you. This is not just a comforting thought, but a transformative reality.” What does it mean for Christ to live in someone, and how might that change a person’s experience of suffering? [[37:53]]
2. Paul talks about rejoicing in his sufferings (Colossians 1:24). Why would someone rejoice in suffering, and how does the presence of Christ make that possible? [[49:14]]
3. The sermon highlights that “transformation is not a solo journey.” Why is community so important for spiritual maturity, according to Paul and the message? [[57:16]]
4. The message says, “It is a trick of the enemy to believe we must hide our struggles until our stories are finished.” Why might sharing our unfinished stories with others be important for growth and healing? [[01:03:34]]

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### Application Questions

1. The sermon asks, “What keeps you going when life doesn’t seem like it’s getting better?” Think about a current struggle in your life. What would it look like to trust that Christ is working within you, even if you don’t feel it? [[44:44]]
2. Paul says his goal is to present everyone “mature in Christ.” In what area of your life do you sense God inviting you to grow or be transformed right now? What is one step you could take this week to respond? [[46:56]]
3. The message says, “Our purpose is not simply to be saved and hold on until heaven, but to be transformed, to become more like Christ through every season, especially the hard ones.” How does this challenge or encourage you in your current season? [[48:07]]
4. The sermon emphasizes that “spiritual maturity requires community.” Who in your life helps you grow in faith? Is there someone you could reach out to for encouragement or accountability this week? [[57:16]]
5. The message challenges us to “lay down our pride, let others into our unfinished stories, and trust that even in the midst, Christ is at work.” Is there a struggle or unfinished story you’ve been keeping to yourself? What would it look like to share it with someone you trust? [[01:03:34]]
6. The sermon mentions the danger of isolation and deception. Are there “well-crafted arguments” or distractions in your life that pull your focus away from Jesus? What practical step could you take to guard your heart and mind this week? [[58:42]]
7. The message says, “When we let others into our mess, we create space for belonging, healing, and fruitfulness that points to Christ’s glory.” What is one way your group can support each other in the midst of unfinished stories? [[01:05:02]]

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Closing Prayer Suggestion:
Invite the group to pray for one another, especially for those who are in the midst of struggle or waiting, asking for Christ’s presence to be real and for the courage to share and support each other as a community.

Devotional

Day 1: Christ Lives in You—The Hope of Glory
The presence of Christ within you is not a distant or abstract idea, but a living reality that brings hope even in the darkest moments. This hope is not dependent on your circumstances improving or life becoming easier; rather, it is rooted in the assurance that Jesus himself dwells in you, offering strength, peace, and confidence no matter what you face. When you surrender to God, confess your need, and trust in the sacrifice of Jesus, you are united with him—not just accompanied by him, but indwelt by him. This is the mystery revealed: Christ in you, the hope of sharing in his glory, both now and forever. [40:38]

Colossians 1:26-27 (ESV)
"The mystery hidden for ages and generations but now revealed to his saints. To them God chose to make known how great among the Gentiles are the riches of the glory of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory."

Reflection: In what area of your life do you most need to remember that Christ is truly present within you, offering hope and strength even if your circumstances don’t change?


Day 2: Transformation Through Suffering—Christ’s Power in Our Weakness
The presence of Christ in you does not guarantee a life free from pain, loss, or hardship, but it does mean you are never alone in your suffering. In fact, it is often in the midst of struggle that Christ’s power is most at work, shaping you, strengthening you, and forming you into his likeness. Like Paul, you can find purpose and even joy in the midst of difficulty, knowing that your weakness is the very place where Christ’s strength is revealed. The journey is not about simply enduring until heaven, but about being transformed by Jesus right now, even in the hardest seasons. [49:14]

2 Corinthians 12:9-10 (ESV)
"But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong."

Reflection: Where are you experiencing weakness or struggle today, and how might you invite Christ to work in and through that weakness rather than simply wishing it away?


Day 3: Depending on Christ’s Power, Not Your Own
You are not called to live the Christian life in your own strength or to hold everything together by sheer willpower. True spiritual maturity is not about busyness or self-reliance, but about learning to depend on Christ’s mighty power at work within you. Letting go of the need to control or strive in your own effort opens you to rest in Jesus’s presence and trust that he is actively working in you, even when you cannot see the results. This is the real goal of discipleship: maturity rooted in Christ, not in your own ability. [52:50]

Colossians 1:28-29 (ESV)
"Him we proclaim, warning everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone mature in Christ. For this I toil, struggling with all his energy that he powerfully works within me."

Reflection: What is one area where you are striving in your own strength instead of depending on Christ’s power, and what would it look like to let go and trust him today?


Day 4: Spiritual Maturity Grows in Community
The journey of transformation is not meant to be walked alone. Christian maturity is deeply relational, and you are called to belong to one another, sharing encouragement, wisdom, and support as you grow together in Christ. Isolation and self-sufficiency are barriers to growth, but when you let others into your unfinished story and walk together in love, you are protected from deception and strengthened in faith. Belonging to a community of believers is both a gift and a responsibility, as you help one another stay rooted in Christ and bear fruit that honors him. [57:16]

Colossians 2:1-3 (ESV)
"For I want you to know how great a struggle I have for you and for those at Laodicea and for all who have not seen me face to face, that their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love, to reach all the riches of full assurance of understanding and the knowledge of God’s mystery, which is Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge."

Reflection: Who in your life can you invite into your journey of faith this week—either to encourage you or for you to encourage—so that you can grow together in Christ?


Day 5: Sharing Unfinished Stories—Belong, Believe, Bear Fruit
You are not meant to hide your struggles or wait until your story is “finished” before sharing it with others. God calls you to let others into your mess, to share your journey while you are still in the midst of it, so that you can experience true belonging and help one another bear fruit. When you lay down pride and the need to appear perfect, you create space for authentic community, mutual support, and the kind of growth that points others to Jesus. As you belong, believe, and bear fruit together, you reveal God’s glory to the world. [01:05:02]

James 5:16 (ESV)
"Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working."

Reflection: What unfinished part of your story could you share with a trusted fellow believer this week, and how might that step help both of you grow in faith and belonging?

Quotes

And this is not some watered-down version of Jesus for you or Jesus with you. This is Jesus in you. Not just forgiveness from afar, but union, indwelling. Not just salvation, but presence. And Paul explains that this is the hope of glory. Think about that. Jesus, crucified, risen, glorified. The visible image of the invisible God, the all-powerful, eternal creator of the universe, is not just beside you. Not just above you. Not just for you. Not just with you. He is in you. [00:40:51] (66 seconds)  #UnionNotDistance Edit Clip

It's the foundation of hope for disciples of Jesus, not dependent upon our circumstances changing or for things to get better. But that Christ is dwelling in us now. Because true hope isn't wishful thinking. It's the presence of Jesus providing strength and peace and power, even when life doesn't change. [00:43:11] (30 seconds)  #HopeBeyondCircumstances Edit Clip

And the easy temptation is to think, well, if Jesus lives in me, shouldn't things be getting better? Whatever better is. But Paul shows us that this hope isn't the absence of suffering. It's the presence of Christ in the midst of suffering. Because here's the hard truth. The presence of Christ in you doesn't mean your life will be free of pain. It doesn't mean it'll be free from loss or comfortable or easy. But it does mean that you'll never walk through the pain alone. And there can be peace, and a peace that we really don't understand. But there can be peace within that pain. [00:45:01] (62 seconds)  #PresenceNotPain Edit Clip

If Christ lives in us, what difference does it make? What's he shaping in us? He's within us to transform us. Did you catch that last line of verse 29? Depending on Christ's mighty power that works within me, this is not just a hang in there until heaven faith. Jesus is within you, actively working in you, desiring that you continue a journey of transformation, growing more and more into his likeness. [00:47:01] (46 seconds)  #TransformationWithin Edit Clip

What if Jesus... think about this. What if Jesus isn't asking you to do more? To carry all the weight. But to trust that he is at work within you. Even now, even in the midst. And others around you. You see, there's a difference between working for Jesus and working with Jesus. It's an important distinction. And there is a difference. We are not meant to live the Christian life in our own strength. We are not the source of our own transformation. [00:51:48] (51 seconds)  #LettingGoInFaith Edit Clip

We like our self-sufficiency, which honestly is often pride masquerading as privacy. We like looking like we have it all together. We don't want to have people see the mess that's within while we are in the midst of whatever it is we're in the midst of. And that is a trick of the enemy of our soul. Trying to convince us that we aren't good enough or that people will think less of us. That's our pride, which we seriously need to lay down. We need to be sharing unfinished testimonies or stories. We need to be sharing these with one another. Letting one another into our mess while we are in the midst. [01:02:14] (62 seconds)  #BelongBelieveBearFruit Edit Clip

We are to share the mess. We are to share the journey while we are in the midst. And we need to normalize this so we can grow accustomed to trusting one another, laying down our pride, laying down this facade like we have it all figured out, like we have it all together, because that's not the truth. We need to grow accustomed to sharing the journey with one another, letting one another into the mess so we can come alongside and live out our mission, so that we can belong with one another. [01:04:32] (53 seconds)  #ShapedByJesusWithin Edit Clip

And you know what happens when we do that? We bear fruit. We bear fruit in one another that not only honors Jesus, but points other people towards him. We belong. We believe. We bear fruit. [01:05:35] (24 seconds) Edit Clip

``May you remember that Jesus is in you. He is not just the hope that carries you. He's there to shape you. to transform you. May you belong deeply to him and to one another. Let someone else in to your unfinished story. May we belong, believe, and bear fruit that shows the world his glory, not ours. And may we go now in his power, not our own. [01:15:37] (57 seconds) Edit Clip