“You shall receive power” – in your personal life
The message of Pentecost is a great comfort to those who believe this: “Listen! You shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you!” And it wasn’t just anybody who said these words, it was Jesus Christ Himself, just before He went up to heaven.
People are very different. Some are really nice, whereas others are stubborn and full of pride. Some are helpful and friendly, whereas others are just difficult to be together with. But there is one thing that is the same for each one of us, if we really want to live according to the teachings of the Bible. If we are honest, there is only one conclusion: “I just can’t be good to everyone, and definitely not all the time. I can’t say that love always guides me in my thoughts and words.”
“You shall receive power” – to live together as Christians in a fellowship
You could think that the most difficult thing is to love your enemies. And that is really difficult. But Jesus said, “The greatest love you can show is to give your life for your friends.” John 15:13 (GW). When we live together in a Christian fellowship year after year, we get to know each other very well. The aim is that we love each other as brothers and sisters (yes, each and every one!). For example, by not being jealous or bitter, or thinking evil. Never blaming - but care, encourage and forgive the others. If we are honest, we have to admit: “By myself I just can’t always love all my brothers and sisters, and by myself I can’t love the others like Jesus has loved me.” Then this message of Pentecost is a very great comfort: “You shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you!” Acts 1:8.
Yes, Pentecost is really a festive time with a glorious promise and message!
Read more about what the Spirit can do for us: The amazing things the Spirit can do for you!