Feeling Empty and Powerless
David Wilkerson's sermon emphasizes that even in times of feeling empty and powerless, God is preparing us for greater works ahead.
David Wilkerson emphasizes the transformative journey of Moses, who, despite feeling empty and powerless during his forty years in the wilderness, was being prepared by God for a significant purpose. Moses chose to suffer with his people rather than enjoy the fleeting pleasures of sin, demonstrating his commitment to God's calling. Even in his isolation, God was actively working behind the scenes, ultimately revealing His presence through the burning bush, which symbolizes the Holy Spirit's power. Wilkerson encourages listeners to seek God with renewed intensity, assuring them that their best days are still ahead, just as it was for Moses.
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Moses was possessed by God. When he lived in Pharaoh's house, he refused to be called Pharaoh's son: "Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God than to enjoy the passing pleasures of sin, esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt; for he looked to the reward" (Hebrews 11:25-26).
There is no doubting God's touch on Moses' life while he was in Egypt. He knew he was called to deliver Israel; in fact, he assumed the Israelites would recognize him as their deliverer when he killed the Egyptian slave driver. Stephen testified of this: "[He] struck down the Egyptian. For he supposed that his brethren would have understood that God would deliver them by his hand" (Acts 7:24-25).
Instead, Moses had to flee Egypt because of his action. By the time he left he was totally sold out to God, although he had no idea he was about to hide on the back side of a desert for forty years.
What does this wilderness period in Moses' life represent? It is a time that many God-possessed servants face. You may be one of them, feeling that you are stuck in a place far beneath your abilities. Moses was just such a servant. He had a mighty call on his life and he dreamed of doing great works for God, yet he was in a wasteland with no apparent future.
While Moses was convinced he had no voice and no message, God was working behind the scenes. One day he set a bush on fire and spoke from it, "Take off your shoes, Moses. You're on holy ground! Now you are about to see great things in your service to me."
That burning bush was the fire of the Holy Spirit moving through a natural object. Likewise today, God wants to reveal more of himself to you so that others around you will realize, "That person has been with Jesus." As you seek him with renewed intensity, you will be turned into a new man, a new woman. Just as it was with Moses, your best days are still ahead.
Sermon Outline
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I
- Moses' identity and calling
- The significance of his choice
- The impact of his actions
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II
- The wilderness experience
- Feeling powerless and empty
- God's preparation during isolation
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III
- The burning bush encounter
- God's revelation and calling
- Transformation through the Holy Spirit
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IV
- The importance of seeking God
- Recognizing God's work in our lives
- Anticipating future greatness
Key Quotes
“Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God than to enjoy the passing pleasures of sin.” — David Wilkerson
“Take off your shoes, Moses. You're on holy ground!” — David Wilkerson
“Your best days are still ahead.” — David Wilkerson
Application Points
- Seek God with renewed intensity to experience His presence.
- Recognize that periods of waiting are part of God's preparation.
- Trust that your best days are still ahead, even when feeling stuck.