Words of Encouragement — Dave Bertsch & Alan Thomas -- July 10, 2022
http://rlcf.church River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The speaker reflects on zealous faith, drawing examples from biblical figures like Caleb, who was noted for following the Lord fully. He contrasts the fear and unbelief of the initial spies with Caleb's unwavering faith, which persisted even after decades of waiting. Ultimately, this zealous faith is shown to lead to the promised land and a lasting 'land of rest' for the people.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Caleb followed the Lord fullyThe speaker points out that scripture uniquely describes Caleb as having another spirit and following the Lord fully, unlike anyone else.Numbers 14:24
The evil report of the ten spiesTen spies brought back a terrifying report about giants in the land, causing the people to want to stone Caleb and Joshua.
Caleb asks for his mountainAt eighty-five years old, Caleb reminds Joshua of God's promise and asks to conquer the very giants the nation feared decades earlier.
The result of faithful enduranceThe faith and zeal of leaders like Joshua and Caleb ultimately led Israel into a land of rest where God gave them victory over all their enemies.
Why the scriptures were writtenThe speaker reads from Romans to show that earlier writings were given so that we might have hope through perseverance and scriptural encouragement.Romans 15:4
Persevering in not pleasing ourselvesChallenged by the life of Jesus, the speaker emphasizes the daily perseverance required to lay down our own will and seek to please others instead of ourselves.
Running the race with enduranceLooking to Hebrews, the speaker encourages believers to lay aside encumbrances and entangling sins, enduring the cross for the joy set before us.
Failures are not race stoppersEncountering encumbrances or failures does not mean the race is over; believers are called to keep laying those things aside and continue running.
