Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – April 6, 2015
Again Jesus said, “Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” And with that he breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit.” John 20:21-22
So, I sit here on a spiritual high after Sunday’s celebration of Christ’s resurrection. Easter has energized me to focus on the eternal, so what am I to do on Monday? If I do nothing, I could be accused of acting like an atheist. If I do something, I may be labeled a religious fanatic. The devil loves my internal debate that leads to lost opportunities for God. Thus, by faith and empowered by the Holy Spirit, I will pray for people who need the peace of Christ. I will love them with acts of kindness that draw them to Jesus. I will make Monday about others—not me.
The disciples saw their wounded Lord walking, talking and instructing them in their next steps to advance God’s kingdom. Jesus knew they were still shaken from the frenzied crowds, the cruel cross and His breathtaking presence. So, He settled their souls with the breath of His penetrating peace. Christ’s peace gives His followers the presence of mind to recognize His presence. Moreover, Jesus equipped His disciples with the Spirit’s power and commissioned them to go forth and share the gospel. The resurrection is faith’s rocket fuel for Christ followers!
“With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And God’s grace was so powerfully at work in them all that there were no needy persons among them” (Acts 4:33-34).
Coming out of Easter’s worship service, how can you harness the Holy Spirit’s power for the sake of others? What is your game plan to advance God’s kingdom? Perhaps you convene a mixture (believers and unbelievers) of moms or dads. Consider using Wisdom for Mothers or Wisdom for Fathers to discuss what the Bible says about these two distinct roles. Maybe you gather a group to talk about Wisdom for Money or hand pick a few emerging leaders and study Wisdom for Leaders. Scriptural studies are a safe and effective way to share Christ’s love. Another excellent book I am reading with my book club is Love Works by Joel Manby.
JOG’s (Journey of Generosity) are a fun way to grow in generous giving. Loving Generously is one of my favorite resources in learning how to live out a life of love for the Lord. Most of all, we stay engaged to receive the peace of Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit, so we can effectively engage our culture. The gospel shared in the Spirit’s power is unstoppable. Jesus is the solution to world peace and global poverty. His peace and grace answer terrorism’s violent acts and militant proselytizing. Christ’s post resurrection plan transforms lives by suffering love!
“The God of our ancestors raised Jesus from the dead—whom you killed by hanging him on a cross. God exalted him to his own right hand as Prince and Savior that he might bring Israel to repentance and forgive their sins. We are witnesses of these things, and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey him” (Acts 5:30-32).
Prayer: Heavenly Father, I receive Your spirit and peace to proclaim the gospel of Jesus.
Related Readings: Judges 6:22-23; Proverbs 28:12; Romans 1:16-17; Hebrews 10:25
Post/Tweet this today: Christ’s peace gives His followers the presence of mind to recognize His presence. #Godsplan #wisdomhunters
Additional Resource: 4 minute music video- Bethel: Fire Fall
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© 2015 by Boyd Bailey. All rights reserved.
