DIVINE ENCOUNTER

TITLE: DIVINE ENCOUNTER

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text:
Exodus 3:1-6 (NKJV) – "Now Moses was tending the flock of Jethro his father-in-law, the priest of Midian. And he led the flock to the back of the desert, and came to Horeb, the mountain of God. And the Angel of the LORD appeared to him in a flame of fire from the midst of a bush. So he looked, and behold, the bush was burning with fire, but the bush was not consumed. Then Moses said, 'I will now turn aside and see this great sight, why the bush does not burn.' So when the LORD saw that he turned aside to look, God called to him from the midst of the bush and said, 'Moses, Moses!' And he said, 'Here I am.' Then He said, 'Do not draw near this place. Take your sandals off your feet, for the place where you stand is holy ground.'"

Supporting Texts:
Isaiah 6:1-5
Acts 9:3-6
Genesis 32:24-30
John 4:19-26

INTRODUCTION:
A divine encounter is a significant moment in which God manifests His presence to an individual, leading to transformation, revelation, and a new direction in life. In this sermon, we will explore various aspects of divine encounters, how they occur, and their profound impact on our lives.

1. THE NATURE OF DIVINE ENCOUNTERS
Understanding what constitutes a divine encounter is essential for recognising its significance in our lives.

a) Divine Initiation: God takes the initiative to encounter us, often in unexpected ways (Exodus 3:1-6).

b) A Personal Experience: Divine encounters are deeply personal and tailored to each individual’s journey (Genesis 32:24-30).

c) A Call to Holiness: These encounters often require us to remove distractions and approach God with reverence (Exodus 3:5).

d) Transformative: A true encounter with God changes us, shifting our perspective and priorities (Isaiah 6:1-5).

Biblical Example:
Moses' encounter at the burning bush represents how God calls individuals for His purpose while highlighting His holiness.

2. THE PURPOSE OF DIVINE ENCOUNTERS
God has specific reasons for orchestrating divine encounters in our lives.

a) To Reveal Himself: God desires to unveil His character and nature to us (John 4:19-26).

b) To Commission: Many encounters are moments where God calls us into service or a new mission (Acts 9:3-6).

c) To Provide Direction: Divine encounters often come with guidance for our next steps (Proverbs 3:5-6).

d) To Offer Healing: Many people experience emotional and spiritual healing during these encounters (Matthew 11:28).

Biblical Example:
Jacob’s wrestling match with God demonstrates how divine encounters can lead to personal transformation and a new identity.

3. PREPARING FOR A DIVINE ENCOUNTER
While God can initiate encounters anytime, there are ways to position ourselves to experience Him more fully.

a) Cultivate a Heart of Expectation: Approach God with a readiness to hear and receive (Jeremiah 29:13).

b) Seek His Presence: Create space in your life for prayer, worship, and the Word (Psalm 42:1-2).

c) Be Attentive: Listen for God’s voice and be sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit (1 Kings 19:12).

d) Remove Distractions: Just as Moses had to remove his sandals, we must also let go of distractions that hinder our encounters (Hebrews 12:1).

Biblical Example:
The woman at the well prepared her heart to receive from Jesus, leading to a transformative encounter (John 4:7-26).

4. RESPONDING TO DIVINE ENCOUNTERS
How we respond to God during and after an encounter is critical.

a) Obedience: God expects us to act upon what He reveals during the encounter (Isaiah 6:8).

b) Testimony: Sharing our experiences encourages others and glorifies God (Revelation 12:11).

c) Worship: Our response should include gratitude and worship for His presence (Psalm 95:6-7).

d) Continued Seeking: A divine encounter should lead us to seek God even more diligently (Philippians 3:10).

Biblical Example:
Paul's encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus led to a life of radical obedience and mission (Acts 9:6).

5. THE IMPACT OF DIVINE ENCOUNTERS ON OTHERS
Our encounters with God can have ripple effects on those around us.

a) Influencing Others: Our testimonies of divine encounters can inspire faith in others (2 Timothy 1:5).

b) Bringing Change to Communities: When individuals encounter God, communities can be transformed (Jonah 3:5-10).

c) Equipping for Ministry: Encounters prepare us to minister to others effectively (2 Corinthians 1:4).

d) Creating a Culture of Encounter: Encouraging a communal pursuit of God can lead to collective divine experiences (Matthew 18:20).

Biblical Example:
The transformation of the demoniac in Mark 5 illustrates how one person’s encounter with Jesus impacted an entire region (Mark 5:18-20).

CONCLUSION:
Divine encounters are pivotal moments that can shape our lives, call us to higher purposes, and reveal the very nature of God. As we seek these encounters with a heart of expectancy and obedience, we can experience profound transformation and influence those around us for His glory.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, I desire a divine encounter with You.

2. Prepare my heart to receive from You in profound ways.

3. Help me to remove distractions that hinder my relationship with You.

4. I pray for a revelation of Your character during my encounters.

5. Empower me to act in obedience to what You reveal to me.

6. Let my testimony of Your encounters inspire others to seek You.

7. Fill me with the Holy Spirit to recognise Your voice and leading.

8. May my encounters with You bring healing to my life and others.

9. Create a culture of divine encounters in my community and church.

10. I declare that I will be a vessel for Your glory, impacting those around me

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:

1. I declare that you will experience divine encounters that change your life.

2. Expect to hear God's voice speaking directly to you in this season!

3. You are being prepared for a new mission through your encounters with God!

4. Every distraction in your life is being removed for a clearer view of His presence!

5. Your testimony will be a source of inspiration and faith to others!

6. Healing is flowing into your life as you encounter God!

7. You are entering a season of profound revelation and understanding!

8. Your life will reflect the glory of God, drawing others to Him!

9. You will influence your community through your encounters with the Almighty!

10. As you seek Him, you will find Him, and your life will never be the same!