May 16

When we don't wait for the Holy Spirit to guide us and to empower us to perform our chosen duties in God's kingdom, then we are trying to do God's work in the strength of human beings. But God's work is far too grand in scope for any mere mortal to accomplish. Who among us can change the heart of man, give new birth to the human soul?

"And who is equal to such a task?" (2 Cor. 2:16).

Who? No human being. Only God can accomplish the saving work he has called us to do in Christ. And we need the power of his own Holy Spirit to do this.

Before the disciples received the Holy Spirit, they were so afraid of the authorities that they fled in the Garden on the night Jesus was betrayed. But after the Holy Spirit came and indwelt them with power, they were willing to die for the same Jesus they had abandoned earlier.

We are no different. Apart from the strength the Holy Spirit gives, we cannot walk the Christian walk. But with the reliance upon the Holy Spirit, we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us.

Scripture for today: Philippians 4:13
Thought for today: The Holy Spirit is the One who has the power, not I.
Prayer for today: I give you praise, Holy Spirit, for enabling me to be what Jesus has called me to be, his brother or sister and witness to the world.

MAY 16