Scripture References: Isaiah 9:2, 6-7; Isaiah 61:1-4; Luke 4:16-21; John 8:44; 1 Peter 5:8; 2 Corinthians 10:3-5; Romans 15:4; Nehemiah 8:9-10.

Intro: Advent, meaning arrival, is a time to reflect on Jesus' first coming and anticipate His second. The prophecy candle reminds us of God's ancient promises of hope fulfilled in Christ. We, Anthony and Lauren, a newly married couple, share our experience of finding hope and a secure future in Him.

Key Points:

1. The Prophecy of Hope (Isaiah 9:2, 6-7): Jesus, the great light, was God's plan from the beginning, bringing hope to a dark world. His titles – Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace – reveal His nature and reign.
2. Jesus, the Anointed One (Isaiah 61:1-4, Luke 4:16-21): Jesus identified Himself as the fulfillment of Isaiah's prophecy, anointed to bring good news to the poor, heal the brokenhearted, proclaim liberty, and comfort mourners.
3. Our Identity in Christ: Through Christ, we are the comforted, the healed, recipients of God's favor, and the planting of the Lord, becoming oaks of righteousness rebuilding what was ruined.
4. The Reality of Spiritual Warfare (John 8:44, 1 Peter 5:8): We face an enemy, the devil, a liar and murderer, who seeks to steal, kill, and destroy. His primary weapon is deception, targeting our thoughts.
5. Taking Every Thought Captive (2 Corinthians 10:3-5): We must recognize the enemy's schemes, resist him, and take every thought captive, refusing agreement with lies that lead to strongholds of heaviness.
6. Repentance and Renunciation: We have the power to demolish these strongholds by repenting of and renouncing lies we've believed, breaking their hold on our lives.
7. The Joy of the Lord is Our Strength (Nehemiah 8:9-10): Despite seasons of mourning, we are called to rejoice. Feelings are servants, not masters. The joy of the Lord empowers us.

Conclusion: The risen Lord desires to lift the spirit of heaviness caused by sin and spiritual attack. Like those in Isaiah 61, we are called to be agents of rebuilding and restoration, empowered by the Trinity.

Call to Action: Examine the source of any heaviness you carry. Identify lies you may have agreed with. Choose to repent and renounce them. Embrace the hope and joy found in Christ. If you desire prayer for freedom from heaviness, please come forward.

radiantvisalia.com
Renouncing Despair and Heaviness
with Travis Aicklen

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