a move of the Holy Spirit

	A Move of the Spirit

“Now the birth of Jesus Christ was as follows: After His mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Spirit.” Matthew 1:18 NKJV To many in the world, the Christmas season is dominated by angels and shepherds, wise men, Mary, Joseph, and the manger scene with the baby Jesus. There are carols and festivities, shopping, gift-giving, and images of Santa Claus. But in many ways, the story about the birth of Jesus is dominated by the Holy Spirit. In fact, the entire story is a celebration of the Spirit, and a demonstration of how the Spirit acts in the world. How He orchestrated events, and moved upon men and women to accomplish the Father’s purposes. The Bible tells us that Jesus’ birth was an act of the Spirit. An angel told Mary that “the Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you” (Luke 1:35). We see how both the mother and father of John the Baptist became “filled with the Holy Spirit” (Luke 1:41, 67). We see how the Simeon, a “just and devout” man, witnessed Jesus’ dedication, and how “the Holy Spirit was upon him” (Luke 2:25). And we see the continuing work of the Spirit throughout Jesus’ ministry. As we think about the birth of Jesus, we are reminded that the Spirit still is active in the world. The Bible promises that He was sent to guide us. Teach us. Empower us. Today, don’t let the superficial things of the world keep you from realizing the spiritual depth and dimension. That God has given you the opportunity to be filled with His Spirit. To have the power of the Spirit. To experience the full fruit of the Spirit, and operate with the gifts of the Spirit. Let His Spirit help you fulfill God’s purposes your life. Prayer Father, help me to be more sensitive to the presence of the Spirit. Lead me by Your Spirit. Fill me with Your Spirit. Let Your Spirit move powerfully through my life. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

light in the darkness

	People Who Walk in Darkness

“The people who walk in darkness will see a great light; those who live in a dark land, the light will shine on them.” Isaiah 9:2 NASB Night was central to Jesus’ birth. It was at night when the magi, studying the stars, discovered that an important king was to be born. It was at night when the angels appeared to the shepherds and they went to worship Him. The perspective of darkness is important, contrasting sharply with Jesus’ ministry as the “light of the world” (John 8:12). In fact, His followers were to have that same impact, and be “the light of the world” (Matthew 5:14). Isaiah prophesied that the Messiah would bring about a powerful transition for those who walk in darkness. This darkness could involve lifestyles or habits that imprison them. It could be felt through relationships that cast a shadow over their lives. They could be bound by sin, disease, or fear. They could be oppressed by demonic forces, deceived and trapped into hoping in the world’s pleasures. They could be discouraged or weary from the weight of problems. Many people are so accustomed to darkness that they don’t realize that anything else is possible. They can’t imagine anything different. But everything changes when they “see a great light.” Their world suddenly becomes clearer. When the light shines on them, they can see the truth about their lives and the world. They know how to live, how to avoid problems, and how to please God. Today, millions of people in the world still “walk in darkness.” People in every nation. In every city. In every neighborhood. During this Christmas season, make a commitment to spread the light of the Gospel. Seek to be a witness to the light, that others, through you, will see the power of Jesus to change lives. And give of your time, talent, and treasure that others will see the light.

The Word became human

The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.
John 1:14 NIV

How wonderful to think about the baby Jesus during this Christmas season. But perhaps the most important thing we can do is remember that He came into the world to bring 💡salvation. The Bible tells us that God loved us so much that He sent Jesus, that He might grow up to be a man and ⛅die for the sins of the world.

Because of Him, we can be part of God’s family. No matter who we are, or what we have done, He offers us the 🌷right to “become children of God.”

We 🔊cannot be good enough to become His children. We cannot do enough righteous deeds, reform ourselves enough, sacrifice enough, give enough, dedicate ourselves enough, or 🔊achieve enough to earn that position. This is a spiritual birth. We must be “⛅born of God.”

Today, pause to 🙏thank God for sending Jesus. If you already have believed👍 in His name, rejoice that you have become a child of God. But if you have any doubts, this is the time to be sure. Simply 🌷believe on His name. 💡Confess your sins. And 🌷believe that Jesus died for you and your sins. And confess 🔊that Jesus is your Lord.

Remember, God is ready to welcome you into His family, to pour forth His 🎁blessings upon you, and to give you your inheritance. But also remember that millions of people around the world need to hear this message. Rejoice that you can be His child! But ask Him to give you a passion for souls, that others may be saved.

Prayer

Father God, I believe in Jesus, and know that You sent Him. Thank You that I am Your child. Thank You that You have forgiven all my sins. In Jesus’ name. Amen.