THE MARK OF ENCOUNTER
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Genesis 32:24-30
Supporting Texts: Acts 9:1-9, 1 Samuel 1:9-20, Exodus 3:1-10, Isaiah 6:1-8
INTRODUCTION:
An encounter with God is never without evidence. It is not merely an emotional experience, nor is it confined to the walls of religious gatherings. Genuine encounters with God leave a lasting mark—visible or invisible—that shifts the direction of a man’s life. These marks are proof that God has touched, transformed, and redirected a life for His divine purpose.
Many desire the blessings of God but not the breaking that comes before it. However, everyone in Scripture who truly encountered God bore a mark—either on their body, in their spirit, or in the fruit of their transformation. These marks often became their identity, a constant reminder of God’s power, and a testimony to others of what God can do.
Whether it is a limp like Jacob, blindness like Saul, or the birth of a long-awaited child like Hannah, the result of an encounter with God is undeniable. This message explores the truth that “The Mark of Encounter” is not just about the moment—it’s about what it produces in your life afterward.
1. ENCOUNTER CHANGES YOUR NAME AND DESTINY
a) God Changes Your Identity
Jacob wrestled with God and was no longer called Jacob (the deceiver) but Israel (prince with God). A genuine encounter shifts how heaven and earth see you (Genesis 32:28).
b) God Renames You According to Purpose
Saul became Paul after encountering Jesus. His name change aligned with his new assignment (Acts 13:9).
c) He Gives You a New Direction
Before the encounter, Jacob was fleeing from trouble; after the encounter, he was walking into destiny (Genesis 33:1–4).
d) He Marks You as His Own
Jacob's limp was a permanent reminder of the night God met him. True encounter will leave a divine imprint on your life (Genesis 32:31).
Biblical Example: Abraham’s name was changed from Abram during his covenant encounter with God, marking him as the father of nations (Genesis 17:5).
2. ENCOUNTER MAY CAUSE TEMPORARY DISRUPTION FOR ETERNAL PURPOSE
a) God Interrupts for Alignment
Saul was struck blind, not to destroy him, but to open his spiritual eyes (Acts 9:8–9). Sometimes God disables the flesh to awaken the spirit.
b) Divine Disruption Leads to Divine Commissioning
Saul’s encounter turned a persecutor into a preacher. He left blindness with a new calling (Acts 9:15–16).
c) Your Comfort May Be Shaken
God often shakes our comfort to build our character. That discomfort is the start of your transformation (Hebrews 12:11).
d) It Pushes You into Submission
Saul’s proud will was broken during his encounter. The mark of encounter includes surrender (Acts 9:6).
Biblical Example: Moses’ encounter at the burning bush disrupted his shepherd life but launched his leadership over Israel (Exodus 3:1–10).
3. ENCOUNTER ALWAYS BEARS FRUIT THAT GLORIFIES GOD
a) God Uses the Encounter to Birth a New Season
Hannah’s tears turned into songs when her encounter with God birthed Samuel, a prophet and judge in Israel (1 Samuel 1:19–20).
b) Your Testimony Becomes a Blessing to Others
Samuel wasn’t just Hannah’s child; he was God’s vessel for an entire nation. Your mark is for His mission (1 Samuel 3:19–20).
c) You Move from Bitterness to Fruitfulness
Hannah was once mocked and bitter, but God’s touch made her fruitful. Encounters heal and restore (1 Samuel 1:6–7).
d) The Result Speaks Louder Than the Struggle
The mark of encounter is that people no longer see your pain—they see the product of God's power in your life (Isaiah 61:7).
Biblical Example: Elizabeth’s encounter in old age brought forth John the Baptist, the forerunner of Christ (Luke 1:24–25, 57–66).
CONCLUSION:
True encounters with God are transformative. They are not moments we forget but milestones that shape our lives. Whether God touches your body, changes your heart, or gives you something new, He never leaves you the same. Your walk, your talk, your mindset, and your future all begin to reflect that you’ve been with Him.
Don’t fear the mark—whether it’s a limp like Jacob, a blindness like Saul, or a child like Hannah. Those are not signs of weakness but of divine engagement. May you seek, recognise, and embrace the marks of genuine encounter, for they are the evidence of a life touched by the hand of God.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, let me have a genuine encounter with You that will change my life forever.
2. Father, remove anything in me that resists Your divine touch.
3. O God, mark me for Your purpose and use me for Your glory.
4. Let every encounter I have with You bear lasting fruit in my life.
5. Lord, shift my name, identity, and destiny into alignment with Your will.
