Separating the Precious from the Worthless (Message to Women) - Annie Poonen - April 15, 2020
Also in
http://rlcfchurch.org/separating-precious-worthless River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The speaker uses the analogy of finding a bag of pebbles versus precious stones to illustrate that difficult times, like isolation or scarcity, conceal immense blessings. Just as the boy threw away valuable gems, we must be careful not to waste the spiritual gifts and lessons God provides during challenging seasons. These times are opportunities to collect and treasure the spiritual insights, faith, and resilience that will prove to be a blessing in the future.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Appreciating fellowship through scarcityWhen we lose the ability to meet together, we realize the true value of Christian fellowship and no longer take gathering for granted.
The story of the boy and the bag of stonesA story illustrates how we often treat difficult times as useless stones, failing to recognize the precious blessings hidden within them.
Biblical examples of isolationFigures like Joseph in prison, John on Patmos, Elijah in the wilderness, and Noah in the ark all experienced times of isolation where God met them.
Our Father in heaven is in controlThe Lord's Prayer reminds us that God is our loving Father and the sovereign ruler of the universe who can stop any crisis.Matthew 6:9
God is faithful to provide a way of escapeGod will not allow us to be tempted beyond what we can bear, and He provides a way to endure every trial.1 Corinthians 10:13
All things work together for our transformationGod causes all things, including sickness and lack, to work together for our good so we may be conformed to the image of His Son.Romans 8:28
Nothing can separate us from God's loveBecause God is for us and nothing can separate us from His love in Christ Jesus, we are overwhelmingly conquerors.
Extracting the precious from the worthlessJust as women in India sift grain to separate the chaff and stones, God uses this time to separate worthless habits from our lives.Jeremiah 50:19
Using our time to study God's Word and prayThis extended time at home is a unique opportunity to read the Bible, take notes, sing hymns, and bring every worry to God in prayer.
Rejoicing and serving othersInstead of grumbling over shortages, we should cultivate a cheerful disposition, radiate the joy of the Lord, and meet the practical needs of those around us.
An encouragement to single girls and studentsSingle women, students facing uncertain exams, and those in difficult family situations can take comfort in God's extra grace and use this time to learn and grow.
Cutting off unhealthy attachmentsBelievers should use this season of reflection to cut off unhelpful relationships, media addictions, and distractions that displease the Lord.
God is in our midst; we will not be shakenBecause God is with us as a very present help in trouble, we will not be moved or shaken by any rising crisis or future wave of trials.
Closing prayer of comfort and strengthThe speaker closes in prayer, asking the Father to comfort, strengthen, and speak to every sister so they can stand strong and count these days as a blessing.
