Embracing God's Word: Healing, Love, and Abundance
Summary
### Summary
Today, we gathered to celebrate the presence of God and to honor those who have served our country, especially on this Memorial Day weekend. We began by praying for Shania, asking God to protect her from harm and to guide her as she steps into her purpose. We declared blessings and favor over her life, emphasizing the importance of leaning into God's calling and not running from it. We then transitioned into a time of giving, thanking God for His love, goodness, and the financial blessings that sustain our church.
We took a moment to honor those who have lost family members in active duty and those who are currently serving or have served in the past. We expressed our gratitude for their sacrifices, which allow us to live in a free country. This led us into a brief reflection on the purpose of our church, Encounter Church, and the importance of revisiting our mission and vision.
I introduced the concept of being "Word Activated," emphasizing that nothing begins without a word from God. We explored John 1:1, which states, "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God." This scripture teaches us that the Word is foundational to everything. We discussed how God spoke light into existence and how His Word has the power to create and transform. Jesus, referred to as the Word made flesh, embodies this creative and transformative power.
We then moved into a time of communion, reflecting on the significance of Jesus' sacrifice. We acknowledged that Jesus was wounded for our transgressions and bruised for our iniquities, covering us both inside and out. We prayed for healing, not just physical but also emotional and spiritual, believing that God is here to free us from our past and help us live in the present.
I addressed the spirit of offense, which often rules and ruins lives. We cast out this spirit, emphasizing the new commandment to love one another as Jesus has loved us. This love goes deeper than mere greetings; it calls us to genuinely care for and support each other.
We also shared a testimony about the power of changing our speech and mindset. I recounted a personal story of overcoming negative words spoken over me and choosing to align my speech with God's promises. This shift in language and perspective led to tangible changes in my life, demonstrating the power of speaking life and blessings.
We concluded with a powerful moment of baptism for Sister Candace, declaring a fresh anointing and a new beginning for her. We prayed for her transformation and celebrated her decision to follow Jesus. Finally, we looked forward to next week's focus on being "Praise Saturated," encouraging everyone to prepare their hearts for a time of exuberant worship.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Power of God's Word: In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. This foundational truth reminds us that everything begins with a word from God. His Word has the power to create, transform, and bring light into darkness. As believers, we must hold onto God's Word and let it guide our lives. [01:48:05]
2. Healing Inside and Out: Jesus' sacrifice covers us both externally and internally. He was wounded for our transgressions and bruised for our iniquities, signifying that He heals not just our physical ailments but also our emotional and spiritual wounds. We must receive His healing and allow Him to free us from our past, enabling us to live fully in the present. [54:12]
3. Overcoming the Spirit of Offense: The spirit of offense can rule and ruin lives, causing unnecessary pain and division. We must cast out this spirit and embrace the new commandment to love one another as Jesus has loved us. This love goes beyond superficial interactions and calls us to genuinely care for and support each other. [55:58]
4. The Power of Speech: Our words have the power to bring life or death. We must be mindful of what we speak, aligning our language with God's promises. By changing our speech and mindset, we can shift our circumstances and experience God's blessings. This principle is crucial for overcoming negative situations and stepping into God's abundance. [01:53:07]
5. Living in Abundance: We are called to live from a place of abundance, not lack. By focusing on God's blessings and speaking life over ourselves and our circumstances, we can experience His provision and favor. This mindset shift is essential for breaking free from a poverty mentality and stepping into the fullness of God's promises. [02:12:16]
### YouTube Chapters
1. [0:00] - Welcome
2. [01:40:59] - Prayer for Shania
3. [01:42:12] - Time of Giving
4. [01:45:20] - Honoring Service Members
5. [01:46:29] - Revisiting Church Purpose
6. [01:47:25] - Word Activated
7. [01:48:05] - The Power of God's Word
8. [01:50:43] - Understanding the Trinity
9. [01:52:07] - Jesus Became Flesh
10. [54:12] - Communion and Healing
11. [55:58] - Overcoming the Spirit of Offense
12. [57:12] - Releasing the Past
13. [59:05] - Personal Testimony
14. [01:00:03] - Be Anxious for Nothing
15. [01:13:04] - Facing Modern Challenges
16. [01:15:12] - Offering Time
17. [01:18:26] - Understanding Tithing
18. [01:23:04] - Being Fruitful
19. [01:26:35] - The First Tithe
20. [01:30:23] - Trusting God in Finances
21. [01:34:28] - Building the Church
22. [01:36:32] - Preparing to Give
23. [01:39:03] - Blessing Over Shania
24. [01:53:07] - The Power of Speech
25. [02:12:16] - Living in Abundance
26. [02:15:21] - Prayer for Elder Carl
27. [02:16:09] - Closing Blessing
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. John 1:1 - "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God."
2. Isaiah 40:31 - "But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint."
3. Isaiah 53:5 - "But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed."
### Observation Questions
1. According to John 1:1, what is the significance of the Word in the beginning? How does this relate to the sermon’s emphasis on being "Word Activated"? ([01:48:05])
2. In Isaiah 40:31, what are the promises given to those who wait upon the Lord? How was this verse used in the sermon to encourage the congregation? ([39:36])
3. How does Isaiah 53:5 describe the nature of Jesus' sacrifice? What aspects of healing does the sermon highlight from this verse? ([54:12])
4. What personal testimony did the pastor share about the power of changing speech and mindset? How did this testimony illustrate the sermon’s message on the power of words? ([01:59:04])
### Interpretation Questions
1. How does understanding that "the Word was with God, and the Word was God" (John 1:1) impact our view of Jesus and His role in creation and transformation? ([01:48:05])
2. Reflect on the promise in Isaiah 40:31. How can waiting on the Lord renew our strength in practical ways? What does it mean to "mount up with wings as eagles" in our daily lives? ([39:36])
3. Considering Isaiah 53:5, how can we apply the concept of Jesus' wounds and bruises covering our transgressions and iniquities to our emotional and spiritual healing? ([54:12])
4. The pastor shared a story about overcoming negative words spoken over him. How can changing our speech and mindset align us with God's promises and lead to tangible changes in our lives? ([01:59:04])
### Application Questions
1. The sermon emphasized the power of God's Word in creating and transforming. How can you incorporate more of God's Word into your daily routine to guide your decisions and actions? ([01:48:05])
2. Reflect on a time when you felt weary or burdened. How can the promise in Isaiah 40:31 encourage you to wait on the Lord for renewed strength? What practical steps can you take to wait on Him more effectively? ([39:36])
3. Jesus' sacrifice covers us both inside and out. Are there specific emotional or spiritual wounds you need to bring to Jesus for healing? How can you actively seek His healing in these areas? ([54:12])
4. The spirit of offense can cause division and pain. Is there someone you need to forgive or reconcile with to cast out this spirit from your life? How can you show genuine love and support to others as Jesus commanded? ([55:58])
5. The pastor shared about the power of speech in changing circumstances. Identify a negative phrase or mindset you often find yourself using. How can you replace it with words that align with God's promises? ([01:59:04])
6. The sermon concluded with a call to live from a place of abundance. What areas of your life are you viewing from a place of lack? How can you shift your perspective to focus on God's provision and blessings? ([02:12:16])
7. Sister Candace's baptism was a moment of transformation. Reflect on your own spiritual journey. Are there steps you need to take to experience a fresh anointing and new beginning in your walk with Jesus? ([02:13:13])
Devotional
### Day 1: The Creative Power of God's Word
God's Word is not just a collection of letters and sentences; it is the very foundation of creation and transformation. In John 1:1, we learn that "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God." This profound truth reveals that everything begins with a word from God. His Word has the power to bring light into darkness, create new realities, and transform lives. As believers, we are called to hold onto God's Word and let it guide our lives. When we speak God's Word over our circumstances, we activate His creative power in our lives. [01:48:05]
John 1:1-3 (ESV): "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made."
Reflection: Think about a situation in your life that needs transformation. How can you speak God's Word over this situation today to activate His creative power?
### Day 2: Healing Inside and Out
Jesus' sacrifice on the cross was not just for our physical healing but also for our emotional and spiritual well-being. Isaiah 53:5 tells us that "He was wounded for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his stripes we are healed." This means that Jesus' wounds cover every aspect of our lives, both inside and out. We must receive His healing and allow Him to free us from our past, enabling us to live fully in the present. Whether it's physical pain, emotional scars, or spiritual wounds, Jesus' sacrifice is sufficient to bring complete healing. [54:12]
Isaiah 53:5 (ESV): "But he was pierced for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his wounds we are healed."
Reflection: Identify an area in your life where you need healing. How can you invite Jesus into this area and trust Him for complete restoration?
### Day 3: Overcoming the Spirit of Offense
The spirit of offense can easily take root in our hearts, causing division and unnecessary pain. Jesus commands us to love one another as He has loved us, which means going beyond superficial interactions and genuinely caring for and supporting each other. When we cast out the spirit of offense, we make room for God's love to flow freely in our relationships. This love is transformative and can heal broken relationships and bring unity. By choosing to forgive and let go of offenses, we align ourselves with God's heart and experience His peace. [55:58]
Ephesians 4:31-32 (ESV): "Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you."
Reflection: Is there someone you need to forgive today? How can you take a step towards reconciliation and let go of any offense you may be holding onto?
### Day 4: The Power of Speech
Our words have the power to bring life or death, and it is crucial to align our language with God's promises. By changing our speech and mindset, we can shift our circumstances and experience God's blessings. This principle is essential for overcoming negative situations and stepping into God's abundance. When we speak life and blessings over ourselves and others, we activate God's promises and create an atmosphere of faith and expectation. Our words can either build up or tear down, so let's choose to speak words that bring life and align with God's truth. [01:53:07]
Proverbs 18:21 (ESV): "Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits."
Reflection: Reflect on the words you have spoken recently. Are they aligned with God's promises? How can you intentionally speak life and blessings over your circumstances and the people around you today?
### Day 5: Living in Abundance
We are called to live from a place of abundance, not lack. By focusing on God's blessings and speaking life over ourselves and our circumstances, we can experience His provision and favor. This mindset shift is essential for breaking free from a poverty mentality and stepping into the fullness of God's promises. When we trust in God's provision and declare His abundance over our lives, we position ourselves to receive His blessings. Let's choose to live with a mindset of abundance, knowing that God is our provider and He desires to bless us abundantly. [02:12:16]
2 Corinthians 9:8 (ESV): "And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work."
Reflection: In what areas of your life do you struggle with a mindset of lack? How can you shift your focus to God's abundance and declare His provision over your life today?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "I do not face the world from a place of lack, but I face the world from the place of abundance. Come on, y'all. We've got sisters. Just stand on your feet. We've got Candace Taylor. I believe. Is ready to get baptized in the mighty name of Jesus. Hallelujah. Glory to God. Sister Candace, change, change, change, change your speech. Speak now life over yourself, over your house, over your ministry. Quit worrying about the lack in your life and start looking at the... The abundance that God is doing in your life right now." [02:12:16]
2. "Nothing changed in my bank account. Nothing changed about the little broke down Cadillac. I was driving. You know what? When somebody gives you a Cadillac, that's a broke down Cadillac. Somebody had given me a Cadillac, which they really just gave me their problem. And I had to fix that thing up. I had to work on that thing. And I don't know nothing about cars, nothing about cars. Had four flats on it when I got it. But I didn't have any money to buy a car. So the free car was better than anything. So I had to do something. And I went down and bought some of those may pop tires. Y'all ever bought those? That brown? May pop? They're retreads. It may pop tomorrow. It may pop tomorrow. It may pop next week, but it's going to pop." [02:05:53]
3. "You know, you should not have made it this far. I don't know if I'm just telling my testimony or yours, but some of us should not have made it this far. But the Lord granted it and said, live another day. And so my days belong to him because they come from him." [54:12]
4. "You know, let me just tell y'all something. When the devil sends you some haters, he always uses language that you recognize y'all don't hear me. You, it'll be something that you heard somewhere before because you will think it is a confirming word. Come on y'all. Are you in the room? And so he's confirming things I've heard my own daddy say because I wasn't a plumber. I was a piano player, so I was never going to amount to anything in my daddy's mind because my daddy was a plumber." [02:00:49]
### Quotes for Members
1. "In the beginning, God stepped out into the darkness and said, let there be light. What caused the light? The word. Let there be light. I believe that when he spoke out of his mouth at 186,000 miles per second or whatever it is, light shot forth out of his mouth. And it went into every place where light was supposed to be. The Bible says in the beginning was the word and the word was with God and the word was God. In fact, when you continue reading John, if you really study the scripture, God is so into words that he introduces his son as the word and the word and you got to understand this and the word became flesh and dwelt among us." [01:49:10]
2. "The power of death and life are in your tongue and those who love it will eat the fruit thereof. What's this? The power. Everybody say the power of death. Understand this. Death has no power until you act. Activated life has no power until you activate it. If something in your life needs to die, you need to say something. Not everything in your life needs to live. So some things I have to speak death over, but there are some things I have to speak life over. Are y'all here today? Okay. So you got to speak life. Okay. Okay. Okay. You got to speak death." [01:53:07]
3. "Today that the spirit of offense is broken in this house. I may have to come back and preach about the spirit of offense, but I'm believing today it's broken in this house. I don't know who that's for. I don't even know why I'm necessarily saying it, but I believe that the spirit of offense rules too many lives and ruins too many people. We get offended over stuff that should have never happened. Never bothered us. Come on, y'all. Offended over stuff that was not ours to even worry about. Offended over things that we should have never even talked about. We picked up somebody else's pain. Picked up somebody else's hurt. And we became offended along with them. And the Bible calls it a spirit. Of offense. Today we cast out. The spirit of offense." [55:58]
4. "When a person is wounded, they bleed externally. When they're bruised, they bleed internally. What Jesus is letting us know is I've got you covered inside and out. I'm not here just to heal cancer in your body. But I'm here to heal the broken emotions, the wounded pains, the places of abuse in your life. God is here right now to take chains off of you and free you from your past and let you live in the moment right here where he is beside you." [54:12]
5. "I had a choice right there in that moment. I could either continue to say what the elder said. Come on y'all. Or I could say what the word of the Lord said. I had a choice." [02:05:07]
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