Prayer and Promises

THE PROMISE 

We are witnesses of these things, and so is the Holy Spirit whom God has given to those who obey Him. And daily in the temple, and in every house, they did not cease teaching and preaching Jesus as the Christ. 

— Acts 5:32,42, HCSB 

THE TESTIMONY 

While the world is full of those who are hungering and thirsting after the pleasures, the fashions, the applause, of the world, or that they may have their own way, how few are hungering and thirsting after righteousness... Why not determine that you will place your will on the side of God’s will, that you may become a laborer together with him? Jesus says, “Ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you; and ye shall be witnesses unto me.” 

Our compassionate Saviour is not less mindful of his people now. He is more willing to give his Holy Spirit as a guide and instructor to them that ask him, than earthly parents are to give good gifts to their children. Do not be afraid to trust God; rely upon his sure promise, “Ask, and it shall be given you.” Jesus has presented to us truth full of spiritual light and vitality. But has this truth been brought into the inner sanctuary of the soul? Does Christ abide in your hearts by faith? If Christ is in you, you will make him manifest to others. We must have more of Jesus, and less, far less, of self. 

If you are saved, there will be some soul in the courts of glory that has found an entrance there through your instrumentality. Then why not entreat the Lord to put upon you his Spirit, that you may be able to awaken an interest in the truth in the minds of those around you?... If the rich blessing of Jesus is in your hearts, you will be able to refresh others. 

God takes men as they are, with the human element in their character, and trains them for his service if they will be disciplined and learn of him. As the heart becomes transformed by divine grace, an external change is seen in true kindness, sympathy, and courteousness. The more we look to Jesus, and become acquainted with his character, the more nearly shall we conform to his image, and the more anxious we shall be to labor diligently and perseveringly to save the souls of all who will listen to the invitation of the Spirit of God. 

— Bible Echo and Signs of the Times, June 15, 1892  

THE RESPONSE 

Dear Lord, I place my will on the side of Your will that I may become a laborer together with You. Be my guide and instructor. I pray for the Holy Spirit to be put upon me that I may awaken an interest of the truth in the minds of those around me. I seek Your rich blessings in my heart that I may refresh others with Your light. Thank You that I may rely on the sure promise to ask and it will be given to me!