23rd December 2018 - Don't Feel Like Praying And Reading the Bible? - Charles Banna
23rd December 2018 - Don't Feel Like Praying And Reading the Bible? - Charles Banna
Summary
The message addresses those who feel a lack of desire or appetite for reading the Bible or praying. The speaker cautions against simply telling such individuals to discipline themselves, comparing the issue to a persistent lack of appetite. He argues that the problem is not superficial or external, but lies deep within the person, suggesting a need for deeper self-examination rather than mere behavioral correction.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Welcome and call to worshipThe speaker welcomes the brothers and sisters and invites everyone to stand and sing praises to God for His love and works.
Singing of God's gloryThe congregation sings a hymn focused on the glory and power of God across all creation and His eternal kingdom.
Testifying through songThe worship continues with songs that testify to the believer's personal story and the cleansing power of Jesus' blood.
A prayer of praise and thanksgivingThe speaker begins with a musical worship session and a prayer thanking God for His faithfulness, liberty, and provision.
Is lack of spiritual appetite a discipline issue?Rather than simply telling people to discipline themselves to read the Bible, the speaker suggests that a lack of hunger for God is a symptom of a deeper internal problem.
The necessity of inward change and fruitTrue baptism and salvation must be evidenced by an inward transformation and a life that produces fruit consistent with repentance.
The Word as milk for new believersNew Christians need the milk of God's Word to grow, rather than assuming they have already reached spiritual maturity.
Moving beyond elementary teachingsUsing Hebrews, the speaker describes basic doctrines like baptism and repentance as the foundation that must be surpassed to reach maturity.
The danger of spiritual delusion and backslidingThe speaker warns against the false security of 'once saved always saved,' noting that a true believer's life should show evidence of abstaining from wickedness.2 Timothy 2:19
Moving beyond elementary things to real growthWhile salvation and baptism are foundational, the true Christian life is defined by an increasing knowledge of God through reading His word and communion in prayer.2 Peter 3:18
The importance of practicing spiritual disciplinesBy applying diligence to faith and adding virtues like excellence, knowledge, and self-control, we ensure an abundant entrance into the kingdom of God.
Overcoming pride to find rest in GodTo pray effectively, we must reject self-sufficiency and pride, learning instead to trust God as a Father who provides rest for the weary.
God uses trials to save us from the pitReflecting on Job, the speaker explains that God allows suffering and even chastening to turn people away from pride and rescue their souls from destruction.
The necessity of spiritual growthUsing 1 Peter, the speaker explains that while we receive an imperishable word, we must long for the pure milk of the Word to grow into full salvation.
Letting the Word dwell in your heart for victoryThe speaker challenges believers to memorize and treasure Scripture so they can use it as a weapon against temptation and follow God's pure path.
