When We Stand Before God | Francis Chan

Sermon Summary

Main Message

This message emphasizes the importance of repentance and humility in our relationship with God. We are reminded that any great move of God, including revivals, begins with individuals coming before Him, confessing their sins and bitterness towards others in the body of Christ. This is a call to examine our hearts, identify areas where we have strayed from God's path, and make amends.

Key Scripture References

• Psalm 51:17 - The Lord delights in a broken spirit; he will not despise his people. This verse highlights the importance of humility and brokenness before God, which is essential for revival and spiritual growth.
• Lamentations 3:40-42 - Let us search our ways and turn back to the Lord... Let us lift up our hearts and hands to God in heaven. This passage emphasizes the need for individuals to turn back to God, acknowledging their sins and seeking His forgiveness.
• Ephesians 4:26-27 - Be angry, but do not sin; ponder in your heart on your bed, and be silent. Do not give place to the devil. This verse reminds us that when we harbor anger or bitterness towards others, we open ourselves up to the enemy's influence.
• Matthew 5:23-24 - Therefore if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift. This passage illustrates the importance of making things right with others before approaching God.
• Genesis 50:20 - As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good... This verse serves as a reminder that even in difficult circumstances, God can use us for His good purposes if we remain faithful and obedient to Him.
• Proverbs 28:13 - He who conceals his transgressions will not prosper, but he who confesses and forsakes them will obtain mercy. This passage emphasizes the importance of confession and repentance in our spiritual journey.

Key Takeaways

• The first step towards revival is individual repentance and humility before God, where we confess our sins and bitterness towards others.
• We must examine our hearts and identify areas where we have strayed from God's path, making amends and seeking forgiveness.
• Harboring anger or bitterness towards others opens us up to the enemy's influence, hindering our spiritual growth and relationship with God.
• Making things right with others is essential before approaching God in prayer or worship, demonstrating our commitment to living out our faith in community.

This Week's Challenge

Take time this week to examine your heart and identify areas where you need to confess and repent. Make amends with anyone you have been holding a grudge against, and seek forgiveness from God. Additionally, take action to remove any distractions or idols in your life that are hindering your relationship with God.

Reflection Questions

• What areas of my life need repentance and humility before God? How can I begin the process of confession and making amends?
• Who is someone in my life towards whom I have been holding a grudge or bitterness? What steps can I take to reconcile with them this week?
• How are there areas in my life where I am giving place to the devil, rather than seeking God's guidance and wisdom? What changes can I make to prioritize my relationship with Him?