Equipping people to receive the power of God

I’m always excited that Jesus didn’t come like a super hero to swoop in, save us from the mess we’re in and then swoop away again. Something that excites me about Jesus is that he comes along side us and shows us the best way possible to live.

One of the key reasons He sent His Spirit to us is to equip us to do the kinds of things he did. In fact in John 14:12 Jesus promises:

John 14:12 NIV (Anglicised, 2011)

Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father.

He’s not saying that the Holy Spirit will give us magic powers to use as we will. What he is saying is that those who follow Him, who’s lives are committed to Him, those who trust in Him, and who do everything in partnership with Him, will be able to see break through on earth as it is in heaven.

We see my favourite two disciples doing this in Acts 3:1-10. Peter and John step out in faith. When the man who can’t walk asks them for money, they say they don’t have any, but that they will give him what they have. In partnership with the heart of God, they step out in faith and say clearly “In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.” And then they help him up.

In the book of Acts we see the disciples sharing the good news of the love of Jesus and His saving work through His death and resurrection. Alongside this message of our repentance and His love, we see it confirmed by signs and wonders; miracles of healing, both of the body and the mind. We see those on the margins restored to communities and those without hope given life.

For our British culture there are many training programmes which the churches of St Helens run to help us step out in faith to pray for healing with people, to pray for breakthrough in immensely difficult situations. There are many considerations we give to how others receive our ministry, and that is right to do so.

But the bottom line is, if you want to receive the power of God, it only comes through His Holy Spirit filling you and equipping you. Let God be God, let Him guide and equip you. Chat to your pastor for other ways to help you do this, but why not step out in faith. Next time a friend is hurt or in pain, why not offer to pray for God’s healing and break through and trust that He will bring it as He wants.

Holy Spirit, I long to be filled by you. I ask you to give me an opportunity this week to offer to pray for someone. Will you give me the words to use and the love to show, and may your will be done.