SCRIPTURE:
“While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit came on all who heard the message. The circumcised believers who had come with Peter were astonished that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on Gentiles. For they heard them speaking in tongues and praising God. Then Peter said, ʻSurely no one can stand in the way of their being baptized with water. They have received the Holy Spirit just as we have. ʻ So, he ordered that they be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Then they asked Peter to stay with them for a few days. ʻ”
Acts 10:44-48
OBSERVATION:
We read in Matthew 1:23 that “Emmanuel - God is with us.” Oh, but to know the truth that God is in us? OMG! Hallelujah, thank you Lord that until Jesus returns, you sent the Holy Spirit, the paraclete (the helper), who dwells within us - to guide, teach, help, and encourage us. God’s word and direction to Peter was very clear that His gift of salvation and relationship with Christ would not only be exclusive to the Jewish people; but would be a gift for all, as Godʻs gift of life through Jesus Christ was/is meant for ALL who believe. It was and is a gift for all nations. The gift of Jesus as Savior would continue in giving, guiding, and helping us through the Holy Spirit. Furthermore, it is through the gifts of the Holy Spirit, that we are equipped by the Lord to be serve Him and be doers of the Word.
APPLICATION:
I am so blessed to know, feel, and experience the Holy Spirit within me - guiding me, teaching me, helping me, and moving in me, including the gifts of the Spirit to do His will. At times it may be a thought, but often it is a still small voice that prompts me or gives me guidance of knowing His will for my life. I love recalling the moment when it all came together in salvation and redemption in Christ for me through Jesus; but then knowing that each and every day I have God helping me and guiding me through the Holy Spirit, in the power and name of Jesus ... it is so gratifying, empowering, and fills me with gratitude.
Unlike my wife Lanu who is Jewish by blood and ancestry, I am thankful that I am grafted in to the vine of Jesus, by Jesusʻ blood.
PRAYER:
Lord, I thank you for my salvation through Jesus Christ. I also thank you for the guidance and gifting of the Holy Spirit that gives me guidance, help, encouragement, and even convicts in obedience to walk in your ways. I thank you for this gift that is mine by accepting you Jesus as my Savior, as I await your return, and in the guidance and help from the Holy Spirit, God within me!
