Divine encounters, as recorded in the Bible, often leave individuals in a state of awe, fear, or profound transformation. These encounters with the divine presence or messengers of God are marked by overwhelming emotions and significant impact on the lives of those who experience them. The Bible provides numerous accounts that illustrate the overwhelming nature of these encounters, emphasizing the majesty and holiness of God.

Moses and the Burning Bush

One of the most iconic divine encounters is that of Moses at the burning bush. In Exodus 3:2-6, Moses encounters the angel of the LORD in a flame of fire from within a bush. The sight is so extraordinary that Moses turns aside to see it. When God calls to him from the bush, Moses responds, "Here I am." God instructs him to remove his sandals, for the place where he stands is holy ground. Moses hides his face, afraid to look at God. This encounter is overwhelming due to the direct communication from God and the revelation of His holiness and purpose for Moses.

Isaiah's Vision of the Lord

The prophet Isaiah's vision of the Lord in Isaiah 6:1-5 is another profound example. Isaiah sees the Lord seated on a high and lofty throne, with the train of His robe filling the temple. Seraphim stand above Him, calling to one another, "Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of Hosts; His glory fills the whole earth." The foundations of the thresholds shake, and the temple is filled with smoke. Isaiah's response is one of overwhelming awareness of his own sinfulness: "Woe is me, for I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips." The encounter underscores the overwhelming holiness and glory of God, leading to Isaiah's commissioning as a prophet.

Ezekiel's Vision of God's Glory

Ezekiel's vision of God's glory in Ezekiel 1 is filled with vivid imagery and overwhelming detail. He sees a stormy wind, a great cloud with fire flashing forth, and four living creatures with the likeness of a man. Above them is a throne, and on the throne is the likeness of a man. The appearance of the likeness of the glory of the LORD is so overwhelming that Ezekiel falls on his face. This encounter emphasizes the majesty and incomprehensibility of God's glory.

Daniel's Encounter with the Angel

In Daniel 10:5-9, Daniel encounters a man clothed in linen, whose appearance is like lightning, with eyes like flaming torches. The vision is so overwhelming that Daniel's strength leaves him, and he falls into a deep sleep with his face to the ground. The angel's words and presence are so powerful that Daniel is left trembling. This encounter highlights the overwhelming nature of divine revelation and the power of God's messengers.

The Transfiguration of Jesus

In the New Testament, the Transfiguration of Jesus is a significant divine encounter. In Matthew 17:1-6, Jesus takes Peter, James, and John up a high mountain, where He is transfigured before them. His face shines like the sun, and His clothes become as white as the light. Moses and Elijah appear, talking with Jesus. A bright cloud envelops them, and a voice from the cloud says, "This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Listen to Him!" The disciples fall facedown to the ground, terrified. This encounter reveals the divine nature of Jesus and the overwhelming glory of God.

John's Vision on Patmos

The apostle John's vision on the island of Patmos, as recorded in Revelation 1:12-17, is another example of an overwhelming divine encounter. John sees one like a son of man, clothed in a long robe with a golden sash, His head and hair white like wool, and His eyes like a flame of fire. When John sees Him, he falls at His feet as though dead. The overwhelming nature of this encounter is evident in the majesty and authority of the risen Christ.

These biblical accounts demonstrate that divine encounters are often overwhelming due to the holiness, glory, and power of God. They serve as reminders of the majesty of the divine and the transformative impact such encounters can have on individuals.