Dustin Woodward - January 11, 2026
Encountering God
What if encountering God is not about trying harder, but becoming more aware? In Week 2 of our sermon series There Is More, Pastor Dustin teaches on The Four Postures of Encounter—a pathway that helps us move from distraction into real, life-changing intimacy with God. God is not distant. He is near. But many of us miss His presence because we are distracted, rushed, or carrying shame. This message walks us through four spiritual postures that position our hearts to experience God more deeply. 4 Postures of Encounter 1. Awareness – God is Near Encounter begins with awareness, not effort. Like Moses at the burning bush, God is already present. The invitation is to turn aside and notice Him. Isaiah 41:10 Exodus 3:1–5 2. Reverence – God is Holy When we see God rightly, we see ourselves honestly. Isaiah’s encounter with God shows us that holiness leads to humility, repentance, and calling. Isaiah 6:1–8 3. Assurance – God is Love and Mercy Shame blocks encounter. Assurance opens it. God does not tolerate you. He delights in you. His mercy is not permission to stay the same; it is power to change. Psalm 103:8–13 Romans 5:8 4. Surrender – God is Powerful God fills surrendered vessels. When we fully yield to the Holy Spirit, the same power that raised Jesus begins to work in us. Romans 8:11 Acts 1:8 Prayer of Encounter God, You are here with us right now. We turn our attention to You and choose to be present with You. Holy God, search us and know us. Cleanse what is out of alignment and draw our hearts back to You. We choose humility and honesty before You. Father, we receive Your forgiveness and Your mercy. We release shame and rest in Your delight over us. Thank You that we are fully known and fully loved. Holy Spirit, we surrender our lives to You. Fill us, lead us, and use us for Your purposes. We trust Your power more than our own strength.
From Series: "There is More"
There has to be more than this! Have you ever had that quiet sense in your soul that life was meant to be more than routines, survival mode, and just getting through another year?
