A Mighty Rushing Wind...
and the Bible names people from at least 16 nations that began to listen to Peter who stood and lifted up his voice. A sermon like none other. They heard Peter in their very own language as he addressed Judea and all who dwell in Jerusalem ~ Acts 2:14. Unbelievable. Here's the man who, just a few days ago, cringed when a young girl asked him if he was a follower of the Christ. What happened to Peter? A resurrection and a rushing wind of the Spirit of God turned his cowardice into courage to cut to the quick those who crucified the Christ. Wouldn't you like to find, just like Peter did, a Deeper Strength that only the Spirit of God can provide?
Reading though I have not commented in months. So much in today's short passage.
ReplyDeleteThere is so much hope in today's last verse: And it shall come to pass that everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.'
Annette H
I am so thrilled that the Holy Spirit is at work in our lives, burning, lifting, healing and causing me to be better than I am.
ReplyDeleteI have been working on a series of paintings, all about the fruits of the spirit this year. I just finished the last one, "The Fruits of The Spirit". I had to smile at how timely it was to finish it just as we were getting into the scripture regarding the Pentecost. God's timing is so perfect.
I am sure Peter was heartbroken when He denied knowing Christ. But Christ forgave him and soon he was filled with the spirit, the greatest gift, ever!
Walking in the Spirit has resulted in new attitudes, self-examination, and, through faith, a sense of peace and purpose.
The beautiful gift that day that when Peter spoke those listening heard his words in their own language, in order that the Spirit might prick their hearts and lead them to the Holy One who could save their souls, does really need to be done again today, for when they read the Words written in their own language the Holy Spirit can speak to them the Words of Life. There is life in the Words and the Spirit speaks them to our hearts.
ReplyDeleteOh, may each one of us today, just like Peter, find a deeper Strength that only the Spirit of God can provide. May He impart it to us as we read and ponder on His Word and learn of Him from His Word.
As we read, "And it shall come to pass that everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.' I am praying for the lost today, claiming this Promise by the power of the Holy Spirit. Mike's uncle hasn't walked with the Lord in many years. Truth is, he is mad at the hand he's been dealt. He's dying and Mike told me last night he wants to talk with him and tell him it's not too late. This is the verse I will send him. Even before his last labored breath (he has lung cancer), he can finally have true Peace and assurance that Jesus can be Lord of his life even still. Even so. Even now.
ReplyDeleteThe fiery Holy Spirit...we are being introduced to God, the Spirit.
ReplyDeleteTo me, the Spirit is the least understood of the Trinity. Some mocked here and called these Spirit-led believers drunk with wine!
Pouring out this Spirit brought a much-needed element to the 11 disciples plus Peter. They simply were not the same men they had been before!
God is taking me by His Spirit into a time of focus on The Virtuous Woman in Proverbs 31. I can hardly wait for the signs of His Spirit as I study these verses. The Law of Kindness has been very precious to me, and this comes from the Virtuous Woman verses.
Rubies and Pearls. I find each one of you to be worthy of this title. Virtuous and beyond value.
This same Spirit longs to draw all to Jesus Christ.
Father, our lives don't always risk the drama that comes from stretching our faith through the Power of Your Holy Spirit. Too many distractions interrupt our Quiet Time. We miss out on that moment of intimacy that comes if we wait for You. We choose to work in areas that are comfortable, but not too risky. But that's where You are, deep calling unto deep. Father, breathe Your Spirit on us, on Mike and his uncle, on Bob, on Kenneth, on Sally and her family...especially the doctor's ministering to her need that seems too much to hope for healing. Breathe Your Spirit on prodigals, returning them to the arms of love. Breathe Your Spirit on those who are weary serving in areas of hostility and suffering. Breathe Your Spirit on those who witness of Jesus, turning them into ministers like Simon Peter. Pour Your Spirit out and bring many to salvation. We cry out to You that all who call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. In Jesus Name. Amen.
Annette H, Just delighted to hear from you!!! So glad you commented. There is hope!
ReplyDelete