Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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 Promise of the Holy Spirit

Acts 1:12-14
 
In Acts 1, we see the immediate aftermath of the disciples deciphering what life is like after Jesus had risen from the grave. The disciples had the opportunity to experience Jesus daily in the flesh. With Him, they learned how God envisions humanity to lead a life on this earth to glorify His name. But with Jesus physically gone from this earth, the disciples and followers of Jesus are left to determine how to implement His teachings without His physical presence. Acts 1:14 says, “All these with one accord were devoting themselves to prayer, together with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and his brothers.” While in mourning over the loss of their friend and Savior from this earthly plane, they sought out the presence of the Holy Spirit for guidance through prayer, in full devotion together. They knew God was there with them and needed His strength and guidance to move forward with the mission and ministry entrusted to them and so they prayed in unity and with devotion to prepare their hearts and minds for the journey ahead. 
 
In our own lives, it can be hard to feel the presence of God. When we go through struggles, grief, doubts, and fears - we often ask “Where are you, God?” But how often do we sit with patience to feel the presence of the Holy Spirit? Are we devoted in seeking Him first to truly experience the Holy Spirit in our lives daily or are we dissatisfied because God is not present in our expected timing? Do we invite others to pray with us and intercede on our behalf or do we try to fight our own battles? How can we invite the Holy Spirit to be present in our lives today? 

Prayer
Dear Lord, we ask for Your presence to be evident in our lives today. Allow us slow down and seek you truly to experience Your presence in our lives through our thoughts, words and interactions with others. Amen. 

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

Without the Spirit of God, we can do nothing. We are as ships without wind. We are useless. - C.H. Spurgeon 


Ms. Shilpa Abraham 
The Mar Thoma Church of Dallas, Carrollton, Texas

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