Words of Encouragement — Ajay Chakravarthy & Chetan Chadalavada — May 7, 2023
http://rlcf.church River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The speaker shares a personal testimony about backsliding after years of consistent church attendance and hearing God's word. He emphasizes that true spiritual life requires a personal, intentional walk with the Lord, not just relying on second-hand knowledge from services. The message encourages the congregation to cultivate a deep longing to hear God's voice directly, drawing parallels to Jesus waiting patiently and the importance of seeking God's word personally.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Knowing God Personally Through His WordGod's promise in Hebrews is that we can know Him directly, and we live not by bread alone but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.
Two Ways to Respond When God Seems SilentLooking at examples like King Saul, who was unconcerned when God did not answer, versus David in the Psalms, who desperately cried out, shows the proper longing we should have to hear God's voice.1 Samuel 14:37
Resting Like the Precious CornerstoneJesus was never in a rush or haste; as the precious cornerstone, He waited on the Father and operated from a place of rest.1 Peter 2:6
God Guides All His Children PersonallyTestimonies show that God faithfully guides His children through His scriptures, and He treats everyone without partiality.
Saul's Encounter on the Road to DamascusWhen Jesus asked Saul why he was persecuting Him, it revealed that Christ identifies fully with His body, the church.
Christ as the Head of the ChurchPassages in Colossians and Ephesians confirm that Christ is the head of the body, meaning He goes through every trial and suffering alongside His people.
Two Ways We Might Persecute Christ's BodyBecause we are bought with a price and are temples of the Holy Spirit, we can persecute Christ either by hurting ourselves with sin or by how we treat others in the body.
What We Do to Others We Do to JesusJesus teaches in Matthew 25 that whatever we do to the least of His brothers and sisters—whether through loving action or negative attitudes like gossip—we do directly to Him.
The Gentle Care of Our LordEven the weakest or most bruised believer is tenderly cared for by our Lord, who will not break a bruised reed or extinguish a dimly burning wick.Isaiah 42:3
