The Holy Spirit and Something More
Feb 01, 2011Last night, I spent time going through old membership records with Graz Mann. We found membership books all the way back to the turn of the 20th Century, even with references to the church organizing as a group in 1855! It was like unearthing buried treasure!
As I reflect on our history, I see we had periods of strength and periods of decline, but overall, our membership stayed consistent through the years. I praise God that we have a wonderful church with a rich history! Still, it makes me ask the question, does God want to do something more here?
In Acts 1 and 2, God told His disciples to come together in unity and He would send the Holy Spirit. When this mighty power came on them, they were able to do an evangelistic work that is unimaginable – 3,000 people coming to Jesus in one day! What does He want to do among us now?
Ellen White says, “There is nothing that Satan fears so much as that the people of God shall clear the way by removing every hinderance, so that the Lord can pour out His Spirit…” (Selected Messages, p. 124).
Please join me in prayer that every hinderance will be removed in us so that we can be filled with His Spirit and share the message of Jesus with all who need to hear! What an exciting time to partner together with each other and the Holy Spirit for the salvation of many!
Vision
Feb 06, 2011“The size of the vision that God will give me is directly related to the amount of pain and discomfort I am willing to endure.” — Perry Noble
There are times when I whine. Maybe you can relate. The scene plays out like this. I get vision from God, get excited, start to act on it, and then hit a wall. I talk to God as if it should be easier and faster to establish what He is calling me to.
Really?
I’m expecting that a dream for redemption, healing and restoration would come easy?
That light penetrating darkness to open up a vivid, new reality would not have opposition from the enemy?
That living the ways of the Kingdom of God would not be assaulted by the kingdoms of this world?
God continues to show me that it takes pain, discomfort, endurance, courage, grace and renewed hope to carry out a God-size vision. Our Lord Jesus suffered so much in order to see the redemption of the world, so we join Him in His suffering as we take up our cross and follow Him as His disciples in this world.
This I know. I have the power and strength of the Living God in me. The Holy Spirit wants to dwell in me (and in you!) daily. The one who spoke the universe into existence is the same One who now inspires you and I and promises fortitude to meet every hardship we face.
What have you given up on?
Is there a dream that is from God that you let go of because you thought it should’ve been easier to accomplish?
I encourage you to pick it up again.
Be willing to endure the pain.
Ask for the courage.
Realize the power of the Living God.
Move forward in His grace, empowered by the Holy Spirit.
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