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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.
I led them with cords of kindness, with the bands of love, and I became as one who eases the yoke on their jaws, and I bent down to them and fed them. Hosea 11:4
Dear Lord,
You lead us with unending love; the name of your cords are "gentle" and "kind." But there are other strongholds that bind us, and they can be so harsh and cruel. Help us to know the difference! Cause us to respond to your voice when you say, "Follow me." Then help us to turn to you and be lead by you with trusting hearts. In Jesus' Name, Amen.