TLDR;
This sermon explores the concept of finding "treasures in darkness," suggesting that difficult times and hidden struggles can be opportunities for growth and blessings. It emphasizes that God often works in unseen ways, developing character and revealing hidden potential during dark periods. The message encourages listeners to trust in God's plan, even when facing adversity, and to recognize that these challenges can lead to unexpected blessings and a deeper understanding of faith.
- God has blessings hidden in secret places, ready to be revealed.
- Darkness, or the absence of light, is not a thing to be feared but a space for development.
- Personal transformation and the realization of hidden potential often occur in private, during challenging times.
Opening and Scripture Reading (Acts 9 & Isaiah 45) [0:00]
The sermon begins with the reading of two key scriptures: Acts 9:1-9, which recounts the story of Saul's conversion on the road to Damascus, and Isaiah 45:3, which promises "treasures of darkness." The passage in Acts describes how Saul, a persecutor of Christians, is confronted by a blinding light and the voice of Jesus, leading to his temporary blindness and eventual transformation. Isaiah 45:3 states, "I will give thee the treasures of darkness, and hidden riches of secret places."
“I Will Give You the Treasures of Darkness” [3:30]
The speaker emphasizes the promise in Isaiah 45:3, highlighting the idea that God provides "treasures of darkness" and "hidden riches of secret places." This suggests that blessings and valuable insights can be found even in difficult or obscure circumstances. The speaker expresses excitement about unlocking these hidden treasures that only God knows about.
Prayer and Preparation for the Word [4:14]
A prayer is offered, seeking the Holy Spirit's guidance and asking for a transformative experience. The prayer acknowledges God's sovereignty, holiness, and authority, requesting that the message will shake and renew those present. The speaker asks God to work miracles and shape them as a potter molds clay.
God Has Blessings Hidden in Secret Places [5:41]
Using the analogy of the flood in Genesis, the speaker illustrates that God has hidden pockets of blessings, just as He had water deep within the earth. These blessings are not always visible, but God knows where they are and can release them from any direction when He is ready to bless someone. The speaker emphasizes that God can work in various ways, even through unexpected sources like enemies or imitators.
God Works Even in Adverse Conditions [7:01]
The speaker contrasts human limitations with God's ability to work in any condition. While Jesus taught to work while it is day, the speaker notes that God can work even in the night. God doesn't need favorable conditions or support to operate; He can bless individuals even in the presence of enemies or in difficult situations. The speaker affirms God's self-sufficiency and unmatched power.
Understanding Darkness: The Absence of a Thing [8:53]
The speaker challenges the common perception of darkness, explaining that darkness is not a tangible entity but rather the absence of light. Unlike light, which can be measured and quantified, darkness has no speed, wattage, or measurable properties. This concept is used to illustrate that difficult times often represent the absence of something needed, such as hope or clarity.
When Light Is Missing, God Still Moves [10:22]
The speaker elaborates on the experience of darkness as the absence of something, leading to feelings of void and ambiguity. This absence can be painful, even in a metaphorical "lit room." The speaker contrasts this with the modern desire for constant visibility and recognition, noting that God often does His best work in the dark, preparing individuals for the light.
Developed in the Dark: How God Forms You in Private [12:05]
Using the analogy of developing film in a darkroom, the speaker explains that God prepares individuals for future success during private, challenging times. Just as film needs darkness to develop properly, individuals need difficult seasons to grow and mature. The speaker encourages listeners to recognize that their current struggles are part of God's developmental process.
The Spirit of God Moves in the Midst of Darkness [13:22]
Referring to the creation story in Genesis, the speaker notes that God's Spirit moved in the darkness before the creation of light. This illustrates that God is active even in the midst of dark and formless situations. The speaker encourages those going through difficult times to remember that God is still moving and working on their behalf.
God Does His Best Work in the Dark [14:37]
The speaker asserts that God often does His best work in the dark, unseen moments. Examples include the creation of the earth, the development of an embryo in the womb, and the creation of Eve from Adam while he was asleep. These examples highlight that God can bring forth new life and potential in hidden, private circumstances.
What’s Hidden in You That God Is Pulling Out [15:19]
The speaker emphasizes that individuals often have unrealized potential within them, and God uses dark times to reveal these hidden qualities. Just as God pulled something out of Adam that he didn't know he possessed, He can reveal hidden strengths and abilities in others during challenging times. The speaker encourages listeners to recognize that their dark experiences may be a catalyst for discovering their true potential.
Seeds Grow in the Darkness [16:37]
Using the metaphor of seeds, the speaker explains that growth and transformation occur in the darkness. Seeds must be planted in the dark to undergo the necessary metamorphosis to produce a harvest. The speaker expresses gratitude for the private, unseen changes God has allowed them to experience, which have shaped them into who they are meant to be.
Thanking God for Private Development [17:48]
The speaker encourages those in dark places to remember that weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning. God provides privacy to bring out hidden qualities and treasures. The speaker refutes negative labels and past failures, asserting that God is working to reveal hidden potential.
Some Trials Are Preparing the Next Generation [18:44]
Referring to God's covenant with Abraham, the speaker notes that some trials are not just for the individual but also for future generations. These challenges can break curses and affect the destiny of children and descendants. The speaker encourages listeners to view their struggles as part of a larger plan that will ultimately lead to victory and the realization of God's glory.
Transformation Happens in the Dark [19:39]
The speaker emphasizes the transformative power of God, which often occurs in private, dark places. This transformation can change individuals, as seen in the biblical examples of Abram becoming Abraham and Sarai becoming Sarah. The speaker sets the stage for a deeper exploration of this theme using the story of Saul's conversion.
Saul’s Conversion: From Persecutor to Apostle [21:04]
The speaker introduces Saul, a highly educated and zealous Pharisee who persecuted Christians. Saul's background includes witnessing the stoning of Stephen, which influenced his worldview. Despite his religious fervor, Saul is portrayed as a "religious hater," highlighting the dangers of religion without genuine relationship with God.
Religion Kills; Relationship Heals [23:00]
The speaker contrasts religion with relationship, stating that religion often leads to hatred and violence, while a genuine relationship with God promotes love. The speaker notes that Christ's most vehement enemies were religious people, while sinners and outcasts were drawn to Him. This sets the stage for understanding Saul's transformation from a religious persecutor to a follower of Christ.
When God Stops What Was Coming Against You [24:21]
The speaker describes Saul as a terrorist who persecuted Christians, believing he was serving God. The speaker warns against ministries defined by who they are against, emphasizing that true religion should promote love, not hate. The speaker then recounts how God stopped Saul on his way to Damascus, preventing him from further persecution. The speaker encourages listeners to celebrate what God has stopped in their lives, such as illnesses, depression, or fear.
“He Stopped It” — Celebrating Divine Intervention [27:12]
The speaker encourages the congregation to praise God for His interventions, recounting instances where God stopped negative forces just in time. The speaker emphasizes that God's intervention is personal, stating that attacking God's people is akin to attacking Him. This reinforces the idea that God fights on behalf of those who are persecuted.
Sight vs. Vision: Losing Eyesight to Gain Insight [32:31]
The speaker describes how Jesus appeared to Saul in a great light, so strong that it knocked him down and left him blind. The speaker emphasizes that even in darkness, it is not over. The speaker explains that Saul's blindness was not a defeat but a setup for something greater. The speaker shares a quote from Helen Keller, distinguishing between eyesight and insight, suggesting that sometimes losing physical sight can lead to greater spiritual vision.
Walking by Faith, Not by Sight [36:06]
The speaker explains that Saul lost his eyesight so that Paul might find his insight. Sometimes, it is necessary to disconnect from external circumstances to discover inner strength and hope. The speaker encourages listeners to walk by faith, not by sight, and to focus on what they believe rather than what they see.
Deliverance Comes from Within [37:42]
The speaker emphasizes that deliverance comes from within, not from external circumstances. Using the example of Mary, the mother of Jesus, the speaker illustrates how yielding to God's word, even in the face of misunderstanding and hardship, can lead to delivering that which will deliver you.
Stumbling Into God’s Blessing [38:57]
The speaker notes that Saul, after losing his eyesight, was led by others, symbolizing a shift in his direction and purpose. The speaker shares personal anecdotes of stumbling upon blessings unexpectedly, emphasizing that sometimes being in the right place at the right time can lead to unforeseen opportunities and miracles.
You’re About to Stumble Into Something Good [39:57]
The speaker prophesies that listeners are about to stumble upon something good, something the devil thought they would never get. The speaker encourages them to praise God in advance for this hidden treasure.
Praise Him Like It’s Already Done [40:59]
The speaker encourages the congregation to praise God in advance for the blessings that are coming their way, emphasizing the power of faith and anticipation.
From Eyesight to Insight: Paul’s Revelation [44:00]
The speaker summarizes the message, emphasizing the power of insight and inner illumination. Vision is not sensual but spiritual, often contradicting what is seen, tasted, smelled, or heard. Paul's experience on the Damascus road taught him the value of enlightenment, leading him to pray for the eyes of understanding to be enlightened.
God Uses Your Enemies to Bless You [45:18]
The speaker highlights the irony that God used Saul, a former Christian killer, to lead the New Testament church and establish fundamental Christian doctrines. This illustrates that enemies can have a purpose in God's plan. The speaker encourages listeners not to hate their enemies, as God can use them as a footstool or to bring about unexpected blessings.
You’re Not Buried — You’ve Been Planted [48:05]
The speaker emphasizes the importance of forgiveness and letting go of grudges. God can transform enemies into servants, as seen in Paul's transformation. The speaker encourages listeners to be open to blessings coming from unexpected sources, even from those who were once enemies. The speaker distinguishes between planting and burial, stating that those in dark places have been planted for growth, not buried for death.
Darkness Is Development, Not Defeat [50:07]
The speaker reminds listeners of Job's words, stating that there is hope for a tree that, if cut down, will sprout again at the smell of water. The speaker prophesies that those in dark seasons will sprout again, experiencing laughter and joy.
You Will Laugh Again, You Will Dance Again [51:38]
The speaker encourages listeners to anticipate future joy and blessings, prophesying that they will laugh and dance again.
God Will Give You the Treasures of Darkness [52:19]
The speaker reiterates the promise of receiving treasures of darkness and hidden secrets, so that listeners will know that God is the Lord their God.
Closing Prayer and Invitation to Salvation [54:07]
The speaker shares a closing prayer, asking God to let the message resonate with the listeners and influence their lives positively. The speaker extends an invitation to those who do not know Jesus or have drifted away from Him to accept Him as their Lord and Savior.
Lakewood Announcements and Next Steps [56:43]
The announcements include information about Monday night Bible study, the Hope and Life youth and young adult conference, and Victoria Osteen's new book, "Exceptional You." The announcements encourage listeners to stay connected with Lakewood Church and to attend services in person when possible.
