This sermon is a heartfelt cry for God's presence, purification, and guidance, and a declaration of trust in His power and provision.
Count Zinzendorf preaches about the longing for God's presence and the desire for a purified heart, asking for God's intervention to break free from bondage and cleanse from impurities. He emphasizes the need to surrender affections to the cross, allowing God to sanctify thoughts and lead the way in times of darkness and trouble. Count Zinzendorf encourages unwavering faith and perseverance in following Jesus, trusting in His support and strength to navigate through challenges until reaching the ultimate peace and joy in His presence.
Text
O Thou to whose all searching sight
The darkness shineth as the light,
Search, prove my heart; it pants for Thee;
O burst these bonds, and set it free!
Wash out its stains, refine its dross,
Nail my affections to the cross;
Hallow each thought; let all within
Be clean, as Thou, my Lord, art clean!
If in this darksome wild I stray,
Be Thou my light, be Thou my way;
No foes, no violence I fear,
No fraud, while Thou, my God, art near.
When rising floods my soul o'erflow,
When sinks my heart in waves of woe,
Jesu, Thy timely aid impart,
And raise my head, and cheer my heart.
Savior, where'er Thy steps I see,
Dauntless, untired, I follow thee!
O let Thy hand support me still,
And lead me to Thy holy hill!
If rough and thorny be the way,
My strength proportion to my day;
Till toil, and grief, and pain shall cease,
Where all is calm, and joy, and peace.
Sermon Outline
- The Heart's Cry for God
- The Power of God's Presence
- The Savior's Guidance and Strength
- Timely aid in times of need
- Support and leadership on life's journey
Key Quotes
“O Thou to Whose all searching sight The darkness shineth as the light” — Count Zinzendorf
“Nail my affections to the cross” — Count Zinzendorf
“Savior, where'er Thy steps I see, Dauntless, untired, I follow thee!” — Count Zinzendorf
Application Points
- We can experience God's purification and guidance by surrendering to His will and trusting in His presence.
- Following Jesus means trusting in His guidance and strength to navigate life's challenges.
- We can find peace and joy in the midst of difficulties by trusting in God's presence and provision.
