BY THE POWER OF GOD
"And my language and my message were not set forth in persuasive (enticing and plausible) words of wisdom, but they were in demonstration of the (Holy) Spirit and power, [that is, a proof by the Spirit and power of God, operating on me and stirring in the minds of my hearers the most holy emotions and thus persuading them], so that your faith might not rest in the wisdom of men (human philosophy), but in the power of God" (1 Corinthians 2: 4,5 AMP).
The plain truth is this: Apart from the grace and power of God, no one can live for Christ in a corrupt society!
Jesus knew this and made preparations for His disciples. " I will not leave you orphans--comfortless, desolate, bereaved, forlorn, helpless--I will come [back] to you. And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Comforter (Counselor, Helper, Intercessor, Advocate, Strengthener and Standby) that He may remain with you forever" (John 14: 18,16). Jesus commanded His disciples to keep His commandments, knowing that they (like all mankind) were weak in the area of obedience. Their spirits were willing but their flesh was weak (Matthew 26:41). Jesus asked the Father to give power to His disciples (those who love Him enough to obey His commands) in two blessings that would enable them to live for Him in a corrupt society: The prayer offered "in My name [presenting all I AM]" (John 14: 13,14); and, the Holy Spirit (John 14: 16,17; 23,26).
It is by God's will that we can go and do anything (James 4:15). The days are evil and no one of God's people can afford to be lazy and dull in their devotion to God and their consecration through Jesus Christ! We must be alert and prayerful, as well as, led by the Holy Spirit, Who gave us life. ". . . as the Scripture says, what eye has not seen, and ear has not heard, and has not entered into the heart of man, [all that] God has prepared--made and keeps ready--for those who love Him [that is, for those who hold Him in affectionate reverence, promptly obeying Him and gratefully recognizing the benefits He has bestowed]" (1 Corinthians 2:9; Isaiah 64: 4 and 65:17). Think about it.
© S.M. Hudson, Hidden Treasure Ministries, December 2003. All rights reserved.
Categories: forgiveness
