Finding Your Flow
Opening Prayer
Lord, help me to put aside the distractions and concerns around me so I can focus on being with You.
Read Acts 2:22-28
[22] “Fellow Israelites, listen to this: Jesus of Nazareth was a man accredited by God to you by miracles, wonders and signs, which God did among you through him, as you yourselves know. [23] This man was handed over to you by God’s deliberate plan and foreknowledge; and you, with the help of wicked men, put him to death by nailing him to the cross. [24] But God raised him from the dead, freeing him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on him. [25] David said about him: “‘I saw the Lord always before me. Because he is at my right hand, I will not be shaken. [26] Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices; my body also will rest in hope, [27] because you will not abandon me to the realm of the dead, you will not let your holy one see decay. [28] You have made known to me the paths of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence.’ Scripture taken from the Holy Bible, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 International Bible Society. All rights reserved throughout the world. Used by permission of International Bible Society.
Reflect
What does Peter say God was doing regarding Jesus?I remember listening to a writer explain his technique for constructing successful songs. To begin with, he seemed slightly nervous but, as he found his flow, there was a turning point in his delivery and an obvious increase in confidence and enthusiasm. It was a fascinating talk. In a similar way, Peter finds his flow when he addresses the astonished crowd after the amazing descent of the Holy Spirit (22). After reciting scripture, he brings everything up to date with challenging observations and statements about Jesus, weaving people’s recent responses to Jesus into the storyline. Peter superbly connects past and present with astounding clarity as he fixes his focus on the resurrection of Jesus. It’s possible that Peter simply hit the verbal jackpot. However, it is more likely that the Holy Spirit empowered him, inspiring his mind and helping him to say exactly what was needed. What was to become a significant marker in the history of the church required an account of extraordinary depth and skill. As a willing speaker and obedient servant, Peter found his flow and let the Holy Spirit do the talking.
Apply
When did you last experience the Holy Spirit’s empowering? Today, be aware of the Holy Spirit’s resources available to you.
Closing prayer
Lord, may the Holy Spirit empower me to serve You each day. May I be aware of that great resource.
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