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Respite For the Weary
This year I have the privilege of studying the book of Acts with a group of women at my church. One of the main themes of Acts concerns the Holy Spirit. As I read the book in its entirety in order to get my mind wrapped around where we were headed in our study, I noticed that two words words were repeated when the Holy Spirit was mentioned: grace and power. What two incredible gifts we possess as believers when we are filled with the Holy Spirit!
GRACE. Why would the Holy Spirit choose to indwell the biblical characters found in Acts? Think of the disciples--they all scattered on the night Jesus was arrested. And then there's Saul; he was ravaging the church, persecuting all Christ followers. But God chose these men in spite of their fears and misguided passions. Why does He choose to indwell you and me? The answer can only beGRACE.
POWER. What happens when, by faith in Christ, the Holy Spirit indwells believers? Amazing things. Read Acts. His power pours in us, transforms us, and then is meant to pour out of us. Because God resides in us, we have the power to heal broken hearts with His kindness, provide salvation to the lost with His truth, and build one another up with His love. His Spirit brings life alteringPOWER.
And with great power the apostles were giving testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace was upon them all. Acts 4:33
Stephen, (full of the Spirit and wisdom), full of grace and power, was performing great wonders and signs among the people...they (the unbelieving Jews) were unable to stand up against the wisdom and Spirit by whom he spoke. Acts 6:8, 10
Let each of us be encouraged that we are not alone. The Spirit that lived in the apostles, is the same Spirit that lives in us today. If the Lord has called you to do something, praise Him for the amazing grace He has poured out on you...He chose you, in spite of you. And then take confidence in the fact that He will give you the power to fulfill His calling.
For this man (Saul) is My chosen instrument to carry My name before Gentiles, kings, and the sons of Israel. Acts 9:15
Praise Him for His grace, obey Him with His power.
And beware lest you raise your eyes to heaven, and when you see the sun and the moon and the stars, all the host of heaven, you be drawn away and bow down to them and serve them...Deuteronomy 4:19
Dear Lord,
Help us to realize that praying to the stars is as effective as praying to a lamp post. You are the only one who has ears to hear and a heart to respond. May we bow our heads, giving both our praises and petitions to you alone. In Jesus' Name, Amen.