Words of Encouragement -- Olu Talabi & Alan Thomas & Hymn Sing -- January 23, 2022
http://rlcf.church River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The central message is that God's desire for humanity, from Adam to the Israelites and the Church, is consistently for people to find their ultimate rest and completeness in knowing and desiring God Himself. The speaker emphasizes that this desire should surpass any focus on earthly prosperity, victory over enemies, or even just sin-victory. Instead, we must make Jesus Christ the primary passion of our hearts, as this foundation leads to all other blessings.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
God's unchanging desire for His peopleDrawing from Hebrews and Malachi, the speaker highlights that God's desire for believers has always been for them to find complete rest, knowledge, and fulfillment in Him.
Abraham's focus on God as his rewardGod told Abraham not to be afraid because He Himself was Abraham's shield and exceeding great reward, setting a pattern of seeking God over earthly land or promises.Genesis 15:1
Looking for a heavenly cityHebrews illustrates that Abraham and other patriarchs lived as strangers in tents because they were looking forward to a heavenly city built by God rather than earthly Canaan.
Tasting all of ChristInstead of just a passing taste of God, believers are called to receive all of Christ fully, putting on the Lord Jesus and making Him the absolute passion of their hearts.
Walking by true grace versus false graceA brief encouragement is shared to walk in true grace by listening to the Spirit's 'say no' voice against sin rather than turning God's grace into a license for wrongdoing.
Samuel sent to Jesse to anoint a kingWhen facing unclear family decisions, the speaker turns to the story of Samuel being sent to Jesse's house without knowing beforehand which son God had chosen.1 Samuel 16:1
Looking past the obvious choiceSamuel initially thought Eliab was the obvious choice for king, but God taught him to look past outward appearances to the heart and wait when no clear option appeared.
Trusting God's pre-arranged planAs fathers and believers make difficult decisions, they can rest knowing God already has a plan and wants to train them to listen closely to His voice.
Finding rest at Jesus' feetIn moments of temptation, weariness, or uncertainty, believers are invited to lay down their burdens and find sweet rest and grace at the feet of Jesus.
Closing prayer for encouragement and fellowshipThe service ends with a prayer lifting up online and local believers, asking God to grant strong encouragement, provide a way through temptation, and teach all to seek Him.
