There are moments when we may feel deeply grounded—centered in something greater than ourselves. When we return to that center, we remember a simple truth: God is in the midst of all things. Sometimes, it is felt in a disruption to our current way of being, or doing. Something knocks us out of center. Spirit is present here and now, in both of these situations. And when we allow ourselves to feel in the presence, we begin what can only be described as the awakening.

In a world that moves quickly—where decisions pile up, directions multiply, and our to-do lists never seem to end—it is easy to feel scattered, like we are drifting without direction. The awakening begins when we pause long enough to notice that feeling and choose to root ourselves again in God. Grounding ourselves in Spirit is not an escape from life; it is the foundation that allows us to move through life with clarity and purpose.

Awareness Is the First Step

Awakening is not a one-time event from the past—it is a present-moment awareness. It is the realization that something we have ignored for a long time can no longer be set aside. Like an unresolved wound, what is unattended eventually demands our attention. Awakening invites us to look honestly at what has lingered beneath the surface and acknowledge it with compassion and courage.

Scripture reminds us of this grounding truth:

“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” — Psalm 46:1

When we remember that God is our refuge, fear loses its power. Even when everything around us feels unstable, we are held steady by a Presence that does not waver.

Perception Shapes the Journey

As we awaken, we begin to notice how perception shapes our experience. Are the many possibilities before us distractions—or invitations? Do we see obstacles, or opportunities for growth? Awakening asks us to examine where our attention goes and what we are choosing to focus on.

This is where discernment becomes essential. In a time of rapid change, we are constantly making choices—about what we believe, what we engage with, and what we stand for. Awakening invites us to ask a powerful question: What am I willing to stand up for? The answer reveals what truly matters to us.

Grounded in the Present Moment

True grounding happens in the present moment. Not in yesterday’s regrets or tomorrow’s worries, but right here, right now. When body, mind, and spirit align, we reconnect with divine wisdom within us. Spirit is not distant or abstract—it brings us fully into our bodies, into awareness, into life as it is unfolding.

Through meditation and mindful presence, we learn to listen. Thoughts may still arise, but instead of being overwhelmed by them, we observe them. Often, these thoughts reveal what is asking for healing or attention in our lives. Awakening gently points us toward what is ready to be transformed.

From Survival to Sovereignty

Many awakening journeys begin in pain. We may see ourselves as victims of circumstance, then as survivors who endured difficult seasons. But awakening does not stop there. Its deeper purpose is to guide us into sovereignty—into reclaiming our spiritual authority and personal responsibility.

Scripture offers this encouragement:

“Be diligent, and do not forget the things your eyes have seen… Teach them to your children and to their children after them.” — Deuteronomy 4:9

Our experiences, even the difficult ones, shape our wisdom. They become sacred lessons that ground us more firmly in truth.

Choosing What We Stand For

Awakening asks us to consciously choose what we give our energy to. Fear-based narratives, external chaos, and constant noise can pull us away from our center. Yet the invitation remains: return to God, return to inner truth, return to what is real.

There is no separation between us and the Divine. The indwelling Spirit is always present, guiding, grounding, and reminding us who we are. Awakening is the journey of remembering this—and living from it.

A Closing Affirmation

I am on an awakening journey.

As we walk this path, may the “eyes of our hearts be enlightened,” so that we may know the hope to which we are called (Ephesians 1:18). Grounded in God, we move forward with awareness, courage, and trust—awake to the truth that has always been within us.

Sunday Message — January 18, 2026
Rev. Lori Souza