Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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Waiting Upon the Holy Spirit
Acts 1:12-14
Vs.14 "All these were constantly devoting themselves to prayer..."
The risen Christ appeared to the disciples several times to affirm to them that Jesus is living. Jesus had given the commission and promise. Jesus' physical presence left the disciples when he returned to heaven, but before his return Jesus asked them to receive the holy spirit and for repentance and forgiveness of sin to be preached in his name (Luke:24:47) and go in to all the world and preach the good news to all creation (Mark:16:15). The commission is to go in to the world to make disciples of all nations. We are called to be a witness to the risen Christ –that is gospel to the world.
1)  Receive the Holy Spirit to witness risen Christ.
The power of Holy Spirit gives us courage, boldness, confidence, insight, ability and authority. Witnessing is not showing what we can do for God. It is showing and telling what God has done for us. We are sent to the world with different types of people who believe in different gods and goddesses, different cultures, ideologies and beliefs. We have to face struggles and problems. Only through the Holy Spirit we could stand against the world to prove that we are true Christians. Jesus promised that, "ye shall be my witnesses" (Matt:10:17-20),for it will not be you speaking, but the spirit of your father speaking through you.
2) Witness the power which we receive.
After Christ was taken up in to heaven, the disciples immediately returned to Jerusalem and had a prayer meeting with other fellow brothers. They waited for the promise of Christ. We have to pray and receive the Holy Spirit before we start our ministry. The Acts of the Apostles are witnessing the act of the Holy Spirit through the apostles. We without the power of the Holy Spirit, can do nothing. If we want to do a fruitful ministry according to the will of God, we have to wait for the power and guidance of Holy Spirit.
Sometimes the power is proven in action through miracles. That is the healing power of God through Christ.
3) The power opens the way for the extension of the kingdom of God.
Go and preach the gospel, that is our commission. We have to reach out to face the unsaved souls. Christ gives peace and comfort in our troubles  and problems. If we enjoy that peace, it should be given to others who are in trouble. Hold to the faith in Christ and share Christ with others. Wait upon the Holy Spirit to open the door of another person who is in difficulties. Then we can easily approach him to introduce the living Savior.
 PRAYER
God help us to wait for your power and guidance. We are week and sinful. Please forgive our pride. In the present world, we are facing many false teachings and heresy. We need more power to present the risen Christ. Amen. 
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
Go and live the gospel, that is our commission. 
Rev. T.C. Mammen (Rtd) Long Island MTC, NY

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