Better Words, Better Actions: PraiseLive's 30 Day DevotionalSample

By Harry Loubser, Global Voice of Prayer

What does it mean to receive the Holy Spirit?

Acts 2:38 (New International Version)

38 Peter replied, “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."

My hope is that you will take a moment and think about what this scripture means to you. I go back to a recent moment when I was stuck with the rest of the world while facing this COVID-19 pandemic. I remember being totally overwhelmed by the situation and the uncertainty of my future and my family.

A quiet, still voice spoke to me in my thoughts, "Spend time in God's presence." The second I stepped into my office and started calling out to God, the Holy Spirit's presence consumed my whole being. The entire room was filled with a bright white light. The moment lasted maybe a few minutes, but it felt like time was standing still to me. I remember taking a moment to repent from my lack of faith and self-centeredness. God met me at that moment and brought me peace that no earthly being can give me.

Here are two main points I took from that encounter with the Holy Spirit.

Praise facilitates access to God.

It's the blood of Jesus that paves the way for forgiveness from sin and a relationship with God (Hebrews 10:19). Our perpetual praise provides a clear and unhindered passage. Therefore, "Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise" (Psalm 100:4).

Praise chases away despair.

There's no better way to beat the blues than to change our focus from self to God. Such a shift produces "the oil of gladness instead of mourning" (Isaiah 61:3)

Reflection Question: 

Are you experiencing hopelessness or despair in certain areas of your life? Have you submitted these fears to God?

Praise + Prayer:

Oh God, I can only praise Your great name if I think about spending time in Your presence. You bring hope to the hopeless; you gave us your Holy Spirit to be with us. Such a beautiful gift that continues to surprise me daily. Thank you for always drawing us near to you. My prayer is to keep my eyes focused on You and the good works you have planned for me.

Action Idea:

Can I challenge you to take a step of boldness and enter into the Holy Spirit’s presence by going to a quiet place? If you like, put on some worship music and just tell God about your fears and anxieties. I trust that God will meet you there and that your story/testimony will encourage others to meet with God and experience joy, love, and peace in Him.