Words of Encouragement -- Ajay Chakravarthy & David Lane -- February 7, 2021
https://rlcf.church/media/sermons/words-of-encouragement River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The sermon emphasizes the urgency of spiritual readiness for the Lord's return, drawing parallels between the warnings given to Noah and the current times. The central message is that one must not become complacent, as being distracted by daily life or ministry preparations can lead to unpreparedness. The speaker urges the congregation to examine their hearts daily and prioritize spiritual readiness over worldly distractions.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
What happens when the heart thinks the master delays his coming?When a person secretly believes the master is not coming for a long time, it plays out externally in careless living and mistreating others.Matthew 24:48–50
Living like the days of NoahJust as people in Noah's day went about life eating, drinking, and marrying right up until the flood came because they were used to ignoring warnings, believers must not let familiarity dull their readiness.Matthew 24:38
The final seven days of warningGod gave Noah a final seven-day warning before the judgment of the flood, mirroring how believers today must treat the present moment with utmost urgency.Genesis 7:1–4
Martha's distraction with many preparationsMartha welcomed Jesus into her home but became overwhelmed and distracted by her many serving preparations, complaining that her sister left her to serve alone.
The one thing that is necessaryJesus gently rebuked Martha for being worried about many things, pointing out that only one thing is necessary and Mary had chosen that good part.
Guarding against distracted living and religious busynessBelievers can easily fall into distracted living even while doing religious things like attending every meeting, running the risk of neglecting the great salvation.
Having the Lord direct our heartsPaul's prayer asks the Lord to direct our hearts into the love of God and the steadfastness of Jesus Christ, who continually set the Lord before Him.
Resting like a weaned child in the LordAmid uncertainties, arguments, and difficult matters, the believer's soul can be quieted and composed like a weaned child resting against its mother.
