The Time When the Lord Wants to Visit Us
Annie Poonen teaches that the times of hardship and challenge in our lives are divine visitations from God, calling us to recognize His presence, learn from Him, and grow in faith and dependence on Him.
This sermon reflects on the concept of 'visitation' in the context of various personal experiences and biblical examples. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing and responding to God's visitation in our lives, even in times of suffering or challenges. The speaker draws parallels between personal encounters with God and instances of visitation in the Bible, highlighting the need for repentance, surrender, and learning from God during these times.
Sermon Outline
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I
- Introduction to the concept of visitation using personal story
- Jesus' visitation to Jerusalem and people's rejection
- The significance of recognizing God's visitation in our lives
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II
- Examples of biblical visitations: Israel's slavery and God's remembrance
- Jacob's encounter at Peniel as a breaking and blessing experience
- Naomi's story of hope and God's provision through visitation
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III
- Modern examples of visitation: Amy Carmichael and a paraplegic believer
- The importance of hospitality and the story of Mary and Martha
- Warning against complaint and neglecting spiritual health
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IV
- Application of visitation in times of hardship and pandemic
- Encouragement to cry out to God and seek His strength
- Living testimonies of transformation through God's visitation
Key Quotes
“Would that you, even you had known this day the things that make for peace, but now they are hidden from your eyes because you did not know the time of your visitation.” — Annie Poonen
“I always think, Lord, I know that you allowed this in my life. Let it be a time of my visitation. Let it be a time when you can meet with me and you can tell me, what are you trying to speak to me, Lord, help me to learn something from this.” — Annie Poonen
“God saw the people of Israel and God knew, that's so wonderful. God sees his people and God knows, that's such a comfort to us when we are under some heavy load.” — Annie Poonen
Application Points
- View difficult circumstances as opportunities for God to meet and teach you.
- Practice hospitality with a joyful heart, avoiding complaints and bitterness.
- Seek God's strength and comfort daily, especially during times of hardship.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'time of visitation' mean in this sermon?
It refers to moments when God intentionally meets us in our lives, especially during trials, to teach, comfort, and transform us.
How can we recognize God's visitation in difficult times?
By being open to God's presence, seeking Him in prayer, and learning from the challenges instead of resisting them.
Why did Annie mention biblical characters like Jacob and Naomi?
To illustrate how God meets people in their struggles and uses those moments for blessing and growth.
What is the lesson from Mary and Martha's story?
Hospitality and service are important, but we must guard against complaints and neglecting our spiritual health.
How does this sermon encourage believers during the pandemic?
It reminds them to see hardships as God's visitation times to seek His comfort and to be mindful of others' needs.