Memory Verse: …” The Lord will open the heavens, the storehouse of his bounty, to send rain on your land in season and to bless all the work of your hands – Deut. 28:12. (NIV)
Text: Deuteronomy 28:1-14
Spiritual Emphasis: An open heaven represents a state of unhindered connection between God and humanity, removing all spiritual barriers to usher in divine favor, supernatural provision, and deep spiritual empowerment.
Hindrance to Open Heaven
- Sin and Iniquity: The prophet Isaiah declares that iniquities separate us from God, causing Him to hide His face and withhold answers to prayers – Isaiah 59: 1-16; 1 John 1:9; 2 Chronicles 7:14.
- Unforgiveness and Bitterness: Holding grudges hinders spiritual connection. Jesus taught that if you do not forgive others, God will not forgive your trespasses. Forgiveness isn’t a “nice thing.” It’s a Jesus thing – Matthew 6:14-15; Rom. 12:19; Is. 53:5; Luke 23:34; John 15:5; Matt. 18:21-22.
- Disobedience: Rebellion and ignoring divine commands close the spiritual atmosphere. Disobedience was the root cause of the heavens becoming as “bronze” and the earth as “iron” for the Israelites – Deut. 28:15, 23; Lev. 26:19; Isaiah 1:19.
- Doubt and Unbelief: A lack of faith disconnects a person from receiving answers from God. The book of James states that a double-minded person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord – James 1:6-7; Heb. 11:6.
- Idolatry and Worldly Attachments: Valuing worldly desires or putting anything above God creates a block in accessing divine presence. The apostle John warns that loving the world prevents the love of the Father from being in a person – 1 John 2:15; Matt. 6:24.
Question: What are some of the practical ways to address these barriers to open heavens?
Conclusion:
Brethren, the concept of open heaven actually denotes the presence of God being poured out over the lives of the children of God, a nation, a church or any assembly. Moments of open heaven are usually characterized by revival, outpouring blessings and manifestation of God’s glory and power.
Shalom!
Self-Study: Deut. 28:12; Malachi 3:8-12; Matthew 7:7-8; 2 Kings 7:2; Rev. 4:1; John 1:51; John 14:2; Prov. 3:9-10; Acts 10:11; Colossians 2:1-23; 1 Peter 2:1-25; Acts 7:55-56; Deut. 28:23; Lamentation 3:44; Matthew 3:16.
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