Words of Encouragement - Olu Talabi & Dave Bertsch - March 15, 2020
http://rlcfchurch.org/words-of-encouragement River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The speaker uses the analogy of an eagle stirring its nest to illustrate how God tests our professed faith during times of chaos. He emphasizes that fear is a natural consequence of sin, but true security comes from experiencing the perfect love of God, which casts out fear. Ultimately, the message urges believers to remain diligent, keep their 'garments clean' by living in the light and peace of Christ, regardless of current worldly disruptions.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Does God stir the nest to test us?Just as an eagle stirs its nest to make its young ones stretch their wings, God allows disruptions and trials to test whether our trust in Him is genuine.Deuteronomy 32:11
Why is fear a natural consequence of sin?When Adam sinned and was separated from God, fear naturally entered human experience, which is why a gap between man and his maker always produces panic.Genesis 3:10
How does the love of God cast out fear?Believers should take precautions, but not live in fear, because experiencing the perfect love of God removes terror from our hearts.1 John 4:18
Who should we truly fear?Jesus instructs us not to fear mere physical death, but to have a reverential awe toward God who holds eternal destiny.
Are worse things still to come?While current disruptions are difficult, biblical prophecy indicates that more severe global trials will eventually take place.
How should we live in light of prophecy?Peter reminds believers that the heavens and earth will pass away, urging us to be diligent so we are found by the Lord in peace and without spot.
Keeping our garments cleanJesus warns in Revelation that He comes like a thief, pronouncing a blessing on the one who stays watchful and keeps his garment clean.
Physical death is only a transition for the saintEven if the coronavirus or other troubles lead to physical death, for a believer it is merely falling asleep while the spirit lives forever with Christ.
What are we going to do with all this extra time?With public events cancelled and people staying home due to the panic, many are wondering how to spend their newly acquired free time.
Getting back into the word of GodInstead of filling the hours solely with movies, video games, or streaming shows, a simple and practical step is to spend more time reading the Bible.
The historical decay and revival of IsraelTracing Israel's history from Solomon's compromise and the reign of wicked kings like Manasseh shows how far the nation fell into idolatry.
The impact of seeking God and reading His wordKing Josiah sought the Lord from his youth, purged the land of idols, and demonstrated the powerful spiritual results that come from returning to the scriptures.
