Bishop T.D. Jakes – Sustainable Outcomes: Still Here ((Sermon Summary and Insights)
Introduction: The Power of Endurance
In this soul-stirring sermon, “Sustainable Outcomes: Still Here,” Bishop T.D. Jakes explores a powerful theme that resonates deeply with anyone who has endured hardship, heartache, and the tests of time. The essence of the message is captured in three words: Still. Here. Standing.
Through life’s storms, betrayals, losses, and transitions, the fact that you’re still here is not just a statement—it’s a testimony. It means you’ve survived what was meant to break you, and you’ve come out on the other side with greater strength, wisdom, and resilience. Bishop Jakes emphasizes that God doesn’t just bless us to thrive in the good times; He sustains us through the tough ones.
1. The Testimony of Survival: I’m Still Here
Bishop Jakes begins by challenging the listener to reflect on everything they’ve endured. From spiritual battles to personal losses, many of us have walked through seasons where quitting seemed easier than continuing. Yet, somehow, by God’s grace—we’re still here.
“You’ve taken some blows. You’ve lost some things. But you’re still here. That’s sustainability!” — Bishop T.D. Jakes
Scriptural Anchor:
“We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.” — 2 Corinthians 4:8-9 (NIV)
This passage becomes the foundation of Bishop Jakes’ teaching, highlighting the resilience of the believer when their strength is anchored in God.
2. God’s Grace is Sustainable
Sustainability, as Bishop Jakes explains, is not just an environmental or economic concept—it’s a spiritual reality. God’s grace is not a one-time experience; it is ongoing, renewable, and powerful enough to carry you through every chapter of life.
“The same God who brought you out of the last thing will sustain you through the next thing.”
You may not always feel strong. You may not always have answers. But what you do have is a sustaining power from heaven that keeps you when you feel like letting go.
Isaiah 46:4 (NIV) – “Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you…”
3. Sustainability Requires Adaptability
One of the most profound insights Bishop Jakes shares is that sustainability doesn’t mean stagnation—it demands adaptability. To keep moving forward, we must be willing to evolve, adjust, and let go of what no longer serves God’s purpose in our lives.
“God’s grace is sustainable, but sometimes your methods are not. You’ve got to change how you carry what you carry.”
This is a call to mature in your walk with God, to be led by the Spirit and not be trapped in your past ways or old mindsets. For your outcomes to be sustainable, your obedience must be current.
4. The Ministry of Endurance
Bishop Jakes reminds us that endurance is not passive. It’s not about simply waiting—it’s active trust in motion. It’s making the decision to worship in the wilderness, to press forward even when you’re weary, and to speak life when everything around you feels dead.
James 1:12 (ESV) – “Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life…”
“Some blessings don’t come to the strongest, but to the ones who simply won’t quit.”
In a world that glorifies instant results, the message of endurance is revolutionary—and deeply needed. Your sustainability in the Kingdom of God is tied to your refusal to give up.
5. You’re Not Here by Accident
“Still here” is not just a status—it’s a statement of divine purpose. Bishop Jakes encourages believers to see their continued existence as proof that God still has work for them to do.
If the enemy had his way, you wouldn’t be here. But your survival is evidence of God’s calling, favor, and destiny on your life.
“God is not finished with you. If you were done, you’d be gone. But you’re still here because your assignment continues.”
6. Sustainable Outcomes Are Spirit-Led
To experience outcomes that last, you need to rely not on talent or tenacity alone, but on the leading of the Holy Spirit. God doesn’t just want you to make it through life—He wants your fruit to remain.
John 15:16 (NIV) – “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last…”
Sustainable outcomes are the result of walking in purpose, staying faithful, and staying connected to the Vine. Temporary victories are easy to gain, but lasting impact requires divine connection.
7. Celebrate Your Survival
Bishop Jakes encourages the church to stop minimizing their journey. You may not be where you want to be, but you’re no longer where you were. That alone is a reason to rejoice.
“Give yourself credit. You’ve walked through hell and you didn’t set up camp. You kept moving.”
When you testify, “I’m still here,” you’re declaring that God is faithful, His promises endure, and your story is not over.
Conclusion: The Power of “Still Here”
Bishop T.D. Jakes’ sermon Sustainable Outcomes: Still Here is more than a motivational message. It is a divine declaration that God sustains His people. The storms may rage, the trials may come, but through it all, God’s grace keeps us.
“You didn’t just survive—you’ve been sustained. And what’s coming next is greater than what’s behind.”
Reflection Questions:
What have you survived that proves you’re stronger than you thought?
Are there old methods or mindsets you need to release for God to sustain your future?
How can you lean into God’s grace more deeply in your current season?
Closing Prayer:
Father, thank You for sustaining me through every trial, every season, and every storm. I may have scars, but I also have stories of Your faithfulness. Help me to walk in the awareness of Your sustaining grace. Let my life produce fruit that remains. I declare by faith—I’m still here, and I’m walking forward in Your purpose. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Credit: The Potter’s House of Dallas