Sunday Words of Encouragment October 28, 2012

We had a beautiful, Spirit filled communion service today.  Pastor continued his sermon series extolling the Power of the Spirit. He pointed out how Elijah passed the 'Mantle' (cloak) of power to Elisha. Elisha had asked for a double blessing and in fact the Bible records twice as many miracles for Elisha as Elijah.

Why do we need the Power of the Spirit?

• To be a witness. Acts 1:8
• To do exploits for God. Acts 6:8
• As an emblem of God's presence. 1 Corinthians 2:4
• As a ransom from destruction. 1 Corinthians 6:1
• As a revelation of Christ. Acts 4:33
• To prevent our hearts from fainting. Isaiah 40:29.

What response is needed from us? 

• Physically – we are expected to take action as directed by His Will.
• Spiritually – we are expected to surrender to His Will and direction.

When Elijah came upon Elisha, who was leading workers in the field, Elijah put his cloak on Elisha. Elisha, a man of worth, immediately returned home, sold his oxen and followed Elijah as his servant. 1 Kings 19:19-21.
Elisha did not make provision for less than God's best. He was accountable for the responsibility he took on. Likewise, our response should be immediate and wholeheartedly committed. We must be careful not to let the enemy trick us with good intentions that are not fulfilled. We should expect to put in effort and sacrifice as there is always a cost for commitment.

This is an old praise song that seems totally appropriate for today's message.

A Verse for Today:
1 Corinthians 4:20 (NIV)
20 For the kingdom of God is not a matter of talk but of power.

I pray today (and I must renew this each day) that God, through the Holy Spirit, would strengthen my intentions into fulfilled commitment.