Day 4 - The Holy Spirit Works Within

He saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having hope of eternal life.  ~Titus 3:5-7 NIV

“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.” ~ Acts 1:8 NIV

Daily Bible Reading: Acts 4

As we’ve been reading through the Book of Acts we’ve seen how God gave the gift of the Holy Spirit, first poured out on the believers at Pentecost.  It is a gift we all receive when we repent and accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior.  For a lot of Christians the Holy Spirit can be confusing --- and sometimes a little scary even. That is until we understand who and what the purpose of the Spirit is in the life of a Christ-follower.

Romans 5:5 reminds us that "God's love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us."  Jesus calls Him the Advocate who will teach us all things and remind us of the things Jesus taught. (John 14:26).  The Apostle Paul tells us that "the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans.  And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God's people in accordance with the will of God." (Romans 8:26-27)

Philippians 2:1-19 is a favorite passage of scripture for me.  It encourages us to imitate Christ’s humility, to continue to work out our salvation, and to do everything without complaining or arguing.  It calls us to shine like stars as we hold out the word of life.  Verse 13 has always given me hope as I struggle to live up to Christ.  “… for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose.”  I take great comfort from the fact that God will not only help me do what is right, but will help me WANT to do the right thing. The Holy Spirit is the one who strengthens and enables us to accomplish those good works. It is a mysterious and hope-giving gift to have the Holy Spirit dwelling within us.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank You for sending the Holy Spirit to be our advocate. Holy Spirit, thank You for teaching us and reminding us of the truth.  Thank You for renewing and strengthening us so we can accomplish the good works prepared for us and live a full and meaningful life.  Thank You, Holy Spirit, for interceding for us.  We invite You to work freely on our behalf. We stand in agreement with all You are interceding because You know our hearts and the will of the Father. Amen.