How is it that the Holy Spirit can take the smallest of details, use it in your life, just so you can say, “Wow! How in the world could that have happened?”
I shared with a wonderful spiritual mentor a side (nothing profound) comment about – “You know I just wanted to show up and maybe talk about the Beatitudes.” She shared with me how each day you have to wake up and say, “Today, I will give my life to Jesus in that area of struggle.” “Daily, ask Jesus to be Lord of your life.” This morning before church, I read two significant verses:
Therefore, as a prisoner for the Lord, I encourage you to live as people worthy of the call you received from God. Conduct yourselves with all humility, gentleness, and patience.
Ephesians 4:1-16 – (Common English Bible)
AND
He reveals the deep things of darkness and brings deep shadows into the light.
Job 12:22
Why are these seemingly random things so important?
We attended Cloverhill Assembly of God, and not only did the pastor start the sermon off with the Beatitudes, he used both of the verses to highlight his sermon!
His sermon was based on this verse: Luke 9:23 “Then he said to them all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.”
The pastor broke down each part of the verse, sharing that the word whoever is everyone. Nobody is excluded. God’s grace is HUGE! He had two video testimonies of members from the church who boldly shared how they had strayed so far from God, they wondered if He would take them back. The one testimony of an older professional man, married, with children took my breath away. He shared that “his lifestyle and choices” caught up to him and his marriage was over, and his children angry with him. Guess who restored all of that?
JESUS!
When he came to Jesus and cried out to Him, God changed their lives, and they are now marriage mentors in the church.
The pastor spent a long time on denying yourself – giving up your agenda to passionately pursue Jesus. When he began to share that every day we get up and cry out to God – “Lord, I die today to self, and Your will be done in my life!” I smiled, and shouted, “Yes! I just heard that this week!” Confirmation!
Following Jesus is costly, and he began to share about how we want to love Jesus, but we don’t want to change. It will cost you your comfort, or old habits, but He is worth it! He showers blessings upon blessings of His love, and pours forth His peace that surpasses all understanding. The message of the cross was shared briefly, and it was a strong reminder of what Jesus physically did for me. He for the joy that awaited Him, endured the cross. Thank you Jesus. May we never be complacent about the cross. And, thank you Spirit for pricking my heart once again, and filling my eyes with tears of joy and gratitude.
He convinced me that today we have become complacent. Where is the passion? Jesus take all of me, not just parts of me.
What our Biblical slogan should be:
Come and Die!
Picture taken from:
Prior to the sermon, worship was overwhelming. A man was crying out – “Lord, we love you!” “Lord break down the barriers.” At the end of the service as folks were leaving, the pastor gave the opportunity for individual time at the altar – to lay it down, die. As I went forward, I stood there worshipping to the sweetest music, and listening to words that at the moment I can’t re-call, but at that time meant the world to me. It seemed Jesus was singing over me, directly to my heart. All of a sudden, I felt the smallest but meaningful breeze pass by my shoulder. Oh sweet Holy Spirit, you touched me and gave me such comfort.
Continuously arrested by His grace. Thank you Jesus.
Kari Jobe – Healer
I believe You’re my healer
I believe You are all I need
I believe
And I believe You’re my portion
And I believe You’re my portion
I believe You’re more than enough for me
Jesus You’re all I need
Youtube video of Healer below:
ARRESTED BY GRACE 