In Acts 7-8, a main "theme" came jumping out at me - the fact that God is speaking to his people. Having discussed listening/hearing God's voice in Monday morning prayer, I think God was affirming me - that Yes, he does speak to his people, and not only that but He desires to speak to his people. In Acts 8:26-40, I was once again reminded how God desires to speak us (prompt things/people on our heart) and then vitally use us to accomplish his purposes.
Also, when thinking on this, I was reminded how not only do we hear God's voice, but He hears ours when we speak to him....... or does He? John 17:3 states - "Now this is eternal life, that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent." So, we know that it's not enough to know about God, but we must actually experience Him and get to know Him. In Psalm 18:41 - "They (the wicked) cried for help, but there was no one to save them - to the Lord, but he did not answer." Why did God not answer? Probably because God never "knew" them, and the fact that they were disobedient towards God, probably didn't help:)
So - 1. Are you being sensitive to listen to God's voice when He speaks to You?
2. If (and do you) cry out to God? Would he "know" your voice?
Prayer - Lord, I thank you that you so desire to know us in a intimate way, and want to talk to us day after day and press upon our heart the things that bring you Glory. Help us to be sensitive to your promptings, and not miss what you would have for us.
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
1 comments:
I was just thinking about this the other day. Does God speak to us? And if he does, which I figure he does b/c there are many examples of him speaking to people, like Philip in Acts 8:40, am I hearing him? Unfortunately I missed MMP, so I'm interested to hear some more ideas on this.
The other thing I noticed all the information of the Holy Spirit in chap 7-8. Stephen is filled with it (6:3,8 7:55), it give him words to speak to the Sanhedrin (ch7), those of the Sanhedrin are missing it (7:51). The Spirit comes to the new believers in Samaria recieve it after Peter and John prayed and laid hands on them (8:15-16). It guides Philip to the eunich, and then took him away. Jesus refers to the Holy Spirit, as the Counselor coming after him (John 16:7) and that the apostles will be baptized in the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:5) and they were (Acts 2). The Holy Spirit is obviously an important part of the Christian's life. Just like hearing God speak, how do we "tune" into the Spirit? When do we get it? I was confused by 8:15-16 that the new believers, even after baptism, did not recieve the Spirit until Peter and John prayed for them. Anyone have some insight?
Post a Comment