ACTS 1:8

But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth

TO PONDER

The disciples must have been a bit nonplussed - for forty days Jesus had been teaching them and then with this message about the Holy Spirit he ascended into Heaven.  The Holy Spirit would give them power, not physical power but abilities they did not have, the Hoy Spirit was to work through them.                      

Likewise, the Holy Spirit works through us, when in faith, we ask for His help; help to be effective witnesses to God’s power, His love and His grace.  As Jesus' disciples today, we face opposition and scepticism and this can be off putting but we have that power and Jesus’ promise ‘you will be my witnesses’.  Perhaps we need to be bolstered in courage, maybe we need to grow in wisdom, perhaps we need help addressing our assumptions and attitudes towards others to continue to be effective workers in bringing lost people to faith. Help to do this is only a prayer away, and Jesus promises that those who ask shall receive.

PRAYER: Lord Jesus, you have taught us through your word and actions and now by the gift of the Holy Spirit how to be your effective witnesses of God’ love and grace in a tired and lost world that  lacks hope. Please help me to cherish this task you have given and seek your help when it seems too hard. Amen

Today's devotion written by Maureen Macpherson, LifeWay Newcastle