Words of Encouragement — Dave Bertsch & David Lane — January 15, 2023
http://rlcf.church River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The central message is that God's paradise is made for those who take responsibility and blame themselves for their sins, rather than blaming others. The speaker supports this using examples from scripture, including the thief on the cross, David's confession to Nathan, and Isaiah's confession to God, all of which emphasize self-acknowledgment without justification. He urges listeners to adopt this posture of humble self-blame.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
The thief on the cross who blamed himselfWhile both criminals initially mocked Jesus, one of them eventually rebuked the other and acknowledged that they justly deserved their punishment, leading Jesus to promise him paradise.Mark 15:32
King David's simple confession of sinWhen confronted by Nathan regarding his sin with Bathsheba, David offered zero justification and simply confessed that he had sinned against the Lord.
Isaiah's recognition of his uncleannessUpon seeing the Lord, Isaiah immediately declared that his doom was sealed because he was a foul-mouthed sinner, after which an angel purged his lips and forgave his sin.
Moving past human blame-shiftingFrom childhood through marriage, human nature constantly defaults to blaming others instead of taking full responsibility before God.
Trusting God at all timesPsalm 62 reminds us to trust in God at all times, pour out our hearts before Him, and recognize that human beings are altogether lighter than vapor.
To whom shall we go?Like Peter's declaration to Jesus, we must realize that no one else on earth can replace the Lord or hold the words of eternal life.
Coming boldly to the throne of graceBecause we have a great high priest who sympathizes with our weaknesses, we can come boldly to the throne of grace to find help in our time of need.
God as our refuge and strengthGod is a very present help in trouble, and when we pour out our hearts to Him, He meets us in the most holy place with His wonderful kindness.
