This week I’ve been focusing on Acts 2:38 that describes how Peter preached to a huge crowed in Jerusalem, saying:

“Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”

This week we’ve already talked about repentance and baptism. So today I’m going to talk about receiving “the gift of the Holy Spirit.”

First, the Holy Spirit is God. He is the person, power and presence of God in the world and in our lives. You can’t see the Holy Spirit, but he is nevertheless active and at work.

Second, followers of Jesus receive the amazing gift of the Holy Spirit dwelling within them. One of the astounding things about being the hands and feet of Christ is that God himself is working in and through us!

I remember hearing about a boy who was bullied. He appeared on a talk show to share his experience. Little did he know that the producers had arranged a surprise: A visit by his favourite NFL football player!

The huge football star wrote out his personal cell phone number for the boy. He said that if he ever needed any help to just give him a call.

Wow! The boy was given a new confidence and courage because of the presence of a new person in his life.

Here’s the connection:

To some people, being the hands and feet of Christ can be intimidating. But not only do we have other people to help us, but God himself is working within us. Just like that young boy, we can have more confidence and courage because of the presence of a new Person in our lives.

Not only are you not alone, but you are powered by the presence of God.

By Matthew Ruttan

—Bible quotes are from the New International Version.

—Please note that, unfortunately, I can no longer read or reply to any email responses to this devotional. Sorry! With the growing readership I just can’t sift through all the replies and questions. But I hope the devotional continues to be a blessing to you. Enjoy!