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Blog Post Sermon: “Rising to the Surface: A Journey of Trust, Freedom, and Faith”

In a world full of uncertainty, doubt, and confusion, we often find ourselves searching for purpose and meaning in the midst of chaos. The song “Rising to the Surface” speaks directly to this struggle. It presents a story of finding hope, trust, and divine guidance through the trials of life. As Christians, we believe that our journey toward understanding the purpose God has for us is rooted in faith, freedom, and trust in Him. These themes, in harmony with Christian Libertarian Ideology and modern human perspectives, challenge us to see life’s obstacles as opportunities for growth and divine connection.

A World Full of Holes

“I look around and see a world full of holes,
I see a child coming proud for what he knows,
And he believes in his head he can make a change,
To save a soul from a life, one could complain.”

The opening verse touches on a profound truth: we live in a world that feels fractured. The “holes” we see represent the brokenness, both externally in society and internally in ourselves. Yet, amidst this brokenness, there is hope. A child, full of belief, steps forward, confident that they can make a difference. This symbolizes the innate drive within us all to bring positive change, to heal the wounds of the world, even if it seems overwhelming.

In Christian Libertarian thought, this verse can be interpreted as the individual’s ability—and responsibility—to create change through God-given freedom. We are not bound by human institutions or systemic powers; rather, we are empowered by the Holy Spirit to act in love and grace. Romans 12:2 reminds us, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” The child in the song embodies this transformation, seeking to heal rather than perpetuate the broken systems around them.

Rising to the Surface

“And as we rise, and we rise to the surface,
A bond is made called trust.”

This recurring line in the song reminds us of the process of growth and redemption. Rising to the surface is symbolic of coming out of the darkness into the light, shedding the weight of fear, doubt, and sin, and stepping into the freedom of God’s grace. This is where the bond of trust is formed—not just between us and God but within ourselves, as we learn to trust His plan.

Scripture reassures us in Isaiah 41:10, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” As we rise to the surface, it is not by our strength alone but by God’s hand guiding us every step of the way.

Liberty Through Faith

The chorus captures the essence of realization and surrender:

“I don’t seem to mind,
What is happening here,
I wasted so much time,
But never got more clear.
And there’s nothing left for me now,
But to release these rolling tears.”

Here, we see the acceptance that time has passed, but clarity has come through release. In modern life, we are often trapped in a cycle of busyness, distractions, and endless striving for success. Yet, this striving can lead to confusion, exhaustion, and spiritual emptiness. The tears represent the release of control and the submission to God’s greater plan.

Christian Libertarianism teaches that true freedom is found not in worldly power or self-reliance but in surrendering to God’s sovereignty. Galatians 5:1 tells us, “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.” Here, slavery refers not only to sin but to the chains of societal pressures and false expectations. By releasing our own burdens and tears, we embrace the true freedom Christ offers.

A Modern Human Perspective: Trust in the Journey

In a world obsessed with instant gratification, control, and constant progress, the message of this song presents a countercultural perspective. We are reminded that life is not a race or a competition but a journey. Modern human perspectives often teach that success and happiness come from self-determination and personal achievement. Yet, the song reminds us that trust in God and His guidance is the only true source of peace.

“With every step we take, we find our way,
In the light of His love, we will not stray.”

This echoes Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” Our culture tells us to trust ourselves and to follow our instincts, but the Bible reminds us that trusting in God’s wisdom brings lasting clarity and direction.

The Power of Grace in Suffering

The final verses of the song delve deeper into the Christian understanding of suffering and redemption:

“Through the dark and the light, we find our way,
In His presence, we are led each day.”

Christian Libertarianism emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility in the face of adversity, but it also recognizes that God’s grace ultimately provides the strength we need. It is through God’s grace that we navigate the trials of life. In 2 Corinthians 12:9, we are reminded, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” The song reflects this biblical truth as it acknowledges that in the darkest moments, God’s presence becomes our guiding light.

Conclusion: Trust as Our Anchor

“And as we rise, and we rise to the surface,
A bond is made called trust.”

Trust is the central theme of this song—a trust in God’s plan, a trust in His timing, and a trust in His grace. Christian Libertarian Ideology reminds us that while we are free to make choices, true liberty is found in submitting to God’s will. Modern human perspectives may push us toward self-reliance and independence, but the truth of the gospel teaches us that dependence on God is the only path to freedom.

The Bible offers many reminders of this trust, such as in Psalm 37:5, “Commit your way to the Lord; trust in Him, and He will act.” As we rise to the surface of life’s challenges, we form a bond of trust with God that strengthens us, guides us, and sets us free.

Let this song be a reminder to all of us: no matter the trials, no matter the uncertainties, we can rise above because God’s love is constant, His guidance is sure, and His grace is always sufficient.

Amen.

Verse 1: I look around and see a world full of holes,
I see a child coming proud for what he knows,
And he believes in his head he can make a change,
To save a soul from a life, one could complain.
And as we rise, and we rise to the surface,
A bond is made called trust.

Verse 2: In the heart of the night, shadows fade away,
A single spark can ignite the brightest day.
Through the valleys and peaks, we learn to stand,
Guided by His grace, we hold His hand.
And as we rise, and we rise to the surface,
A bond is made called trust.

Chorus: I don’t seem to mind,
What is happening here,
I wasted so much time,
But never got more clear.
And there’s nothing left for me now,
But to release these rolling tears.

Verse 3: With every step we take, we find our way,
In the light of His love, we will not stray.
Through the trials and the storms, we are refined,
In His presence, a peace we always find.
And as we rise, and we rise to the surface,
A bond is made called trust.

Verse 4: In the silence of the dawn, we hear His call,
A reminder that His love conquers all.
With faith in our hearts, we face each day,
Knowing He is with us, come what may.
And as we rise, and we rise to the surface,
A bond is made called trust.

Chorus:

Verse 5: On the journey of life, we find our place,
In the warmth of His everlasting embrace.
Through the highs and the lows, we are secure,
In His love, we find a cure.
And as we rise, and we rise to the surface,
A bond is made called trust.

Verse 6: In the face of despair, we find our strength,
With His guidance, we go to any length.
Through the dark and the light, we find our way,
In His presence, we are led each day.
And as we rise, and we rise to the surface,
A bond is made called trust.

Chorus:

Verse 7: With a heart full of hope, we face the unknown,
In His love, we are never alone.
Through the trials and the joy, we find our song,
In His presence, we belong.
And as we rise, and we rise to the surface,
A bond is made called trust.

As Always, God Bless,

James Arthur Ferguson