The Need For A Fresh Encounter With God Series

THE NEED FOR A FRESH ENCOUNTER WITH GOD

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Exodus 33:18

"And he said, I beseech thee, shew me thy glory."

Supporting Texts: Isaiah 6:1-8, Acts 9:3-6, Genesis 32:24-30, Habakkuk 3:2, Psalm 63:1-2

INTRODUCTION

A fresh encounter with God is a life-transforming experience that renews spiritual strength, deepens intimacy with God, and aligns believers with divine purpose. In Exodus 33:18, Moses, despite already experiencing God’s power, desired a greater revelation of His glory. This shows that no matter how much we know God, there is always a deeper level to experience.

Many believers grow spiritually weak due to routine Christianity, lack of hunger for God, and distractions from the world. However, God is always willing to reveal Himself afresh to those who seek Him with a sincere heart.

In this sermon, we will explore why we need a fresh encounter with God, hindrances to divine encounters, and how to position ourselves for a life-changing experience with Him.

1. WHY WE NEED A FRESH ENCOUNTER WITH GOD

A fresh encounter with God brings renewal, empowerment, and direction for our spiritual journey.

a) Revival of spiritual passion – An encounter with God rekindles our love and zeal for Him (Psalm 42:1-2).

b) Divine direction and clarity – Encounters with God provide guidance and instruction for life’s journey (Isaiah 30:21).

c) Empowerment for greater works – When we experience God afresh, we receive power to fulfil our divine assignment (Acts 1:8).

d) Transformation and renewal – A divine encounter changes our character and spiritual condition (2 Corinthians 3:18).

e) Biblical Example: Isaiah’s Call – Isaiah encountered God’s glory, which purified and commissioned him (Isaiah 6:1-8).

2. HINDRANCES TO A FRESH ENCOUNTER WITH GOD

Certain attitudes and conditions can prevent believers from experiencing a fresh move of God in their lives.

a) Spiritual complacency – Being satisfied with past experiences hinders new encounters (Revelation 3:15-16).

b) Unconfessed sin and worldliness – Sin separates us from God’s presence (Isaiah 59:1-2).

c) Lack of hunger and desire for God – Only those who thirst for God will experience more of Him (Matthew 5:6).

d) Distractions and busyness – When life’s worries take priority, our spiritual sensitivity decreases (Luke 10:41-42).

e) Biblical Example: The Rich Young Ruler – He missed a divine encounter because he valued material wealth more than God (Mark 10:17-22).

3. HOW TO POSITION YOURSELF FOR A FRESH ENCOUNTER

A fresh encounter with God requires intentional pursuit and spiritual discipline.

a) Develop a deep hunger for God – Desire and thirst for God’s presence draw Him closer to us (Jeremiah 29:13).

b) Spend quality time in prayer and worship – Divine encounters often happen in the place of communion with God (Acts 16:25-26).

c) Live a life of holiness and consecration – A pure heart attracts the presence of God (Psalm 24:3-4).

d) Engage in fasting and spiritual discipline – Fasting removes distractions and increases spiritual sensitivity (Matthew 17:21).

e) Biblical Example: Jacob at Peniel – Jacob wrestled with God in prayer and received a life-changing encounter (Genesis 32:24-30).

CONCLUSION

Every believer needs a fresh encounter with God to remain spiritually vibrant and effective. The hunger for more of God should never fade, for there is always a greater dimension of His presence to experience.

Moses had seen God’s power in Egypt, at the Red Sea, and in the wilderness, yet he still cried out, “Show me Your glory” (Exodus 33:18). This should be our desire as well.

Are you satisfied with where you are spiritually, or do you long for a fresh touch from God? Now is the time to seek Him with all your heart and experience His glory afresh!

PRAYER POINTS

1. Lord, give me a fresh hunger and thirst for Your presence.

2. Father, remove every hindrance blocking me from a deeper encounter with You.

3. Holy Spirit, set my heart on fire for You again.

4. Lord, reveal Your glory in my life as You did to Moses.

5. Father, empower me through a fresh encounter to fulfil my divine purpose.