Friday, September 2, 2011

The Holy Spirit Comes From On High


Acts 2

The Holy Spirit comes upon the believing Jews gathered at the temple.

INSIGHT

Who would have expected the coming of the Holy Spirit in the New Testament to be like this? Rushing wind. Fire. Many languages spoken and all being understood. Those with unbelieving hearts always find a "natural" explanation, but those who believe drop to their knees and cry out to God! "Men and brethren, what shall we do?" (2:37). Revelation always demands a response. Unbelievers always look for a way to get out from under the authority of Scripture. But the believing heart will cry out, "O God, what shall I do?" Search your mind. Is there some response you should make to God right now?

PRAYER

As you continue to meditate on God's Word, offer praises to the Lord as you respond to His revelation:
Men shall speak of the might of Your awesome acts,
And I will declare Your greatness.
They shall utter the memory of Your great goodness,
And shall sing of Your righteousness.
The Lord is gracious and full of compassion,
Slow to anger and great in mercy.
The Lord is good to all,
And His tender mercies are over all His works.
(Psalm 145:6-9)

Pause for praise and thanksgiving, and as you seek to keep your life free from sin, pray this confession to the Lord:
I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
Marvelous are Your works,
And that my soul knows very well. . . .
Search me, O God, and know my heart;
Try me, and know my anxieties;
And see if there is any wicked way in me,
And lead me in the way everlasting.
(Psalm 139:14, 23-24)

Confess any sins that the Holy Spirit brings to your mind.

Now pray this affirmation to the Lord:
Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. (Hebrews 13:8)

As you make your requests known to the Lord, include:
  • Patience in difficult circumstances
  • Wisdom for your church leaders
  • Whatever else is on your heart
Finally, offer this closing prayer to the Lord:
Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good!
For His mercy endures forever. (1 Chronicles 16:34)

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