Transformed - Day 160 Month 6-10 Week 23-6

 Today's Reading (Bible in 1 year)


Joshua 21:1-32, Psalm 126, Jeremiah 38:17-28, Acts 2:1-36

https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Joshua%2021%3A1-32%2C%20Psalm%20126%2C%20Jeremiah%2038%3A17-28%2C%20Acts%202%3A1-36&version=NASB1995


Transformed


“How is it that we each hear them in our own language?”  The people were amazed and astonished because simple Galileans were speaking to them in their own language.   I find it interesting that some of the witnesses that day who were witnessing pentecost (the descent of the Holy Spirit on the apostles and Jesus followers), accused them of being full of sweet wine.  I don’t know about you, but if I’m hearing someone who can’t speak my language speaking clearly to me in my language, that can’t be drunkenness.  


This is the time that Jesus told them to wait for in Jerusalem  - the Holy Spirit’s arrival.  Peter boldly explains from the prophets, how it was Jesus who they crucified, who has been exalted to the right hand of God and fulfilled the promise of the Holy Spirit’s arrival.  In a manner of speaking, it’s the changing of the guard.  From Jesus' living presence to the Holy Spirit taking his place.


What I recognize is how Peter has changed.  Peter, who was in the court during Jesus’ trial denied Jesus 3 times because he was terrified, has now become the bold leader speaking openly about Jesus.  Now that’s transformation!


Now this specific occurrence is a one time thing.  It is the day of Pentecost and the Holy Spirit is poured out over all of the followers of Jesus who were present there.  The Holy Spirit we are hearing about on pentecost is present within the lives and hearts of everyone who is a Jesus follower, including me. It is, however, a moment of personal clarity.  I rely on myself too much. If the same Holy Spirit lives in me, why do I not live a life of Holy Spirit boldness and strength?


The disciples and believers that surrounded them were spending time together, in prayer, as described in the previous chapter.  “These all with one mind were continually devoting themselves to prayer, along with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers (Acts 1:14).”  I must confess I have great intentions of spending more time in prayer yet I often don’t spend as much time as I could.  My prayer life generally consists of giving God a list of things I’d like Him to do, and most I know are in His will, but my theme is receiving.  Prayer should be more getting to know God better through spending time with Him.  I know that if I do this throughout every day, the Holy Spirit will give me boldness, strength and courage to do the things He  asks of me.


In the spirit of wanting to spend more valuable time with God, I will close today with a simple prayer.  Feel free to pray along with me.


Father, forgive me for putting my list before our relationship.  It is through You that I have life because of Your love for me.  May I show the same love to You and to my neighbour.  When I pray for things through a selfish nature please nudge me back in the right direction.  Help me to live each moment in each day with You in the forefront of my life.  In the name of Jesus, I pray.  AMEN


Have a great day!

Steve

steve.d.pauls@gmail.com


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