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

You'll be fine. Just remember what you've learned, and go do it. You've got this. And, help someone else, too. Remember what I taught you, and if you have any questions, feel free to ask. 

Have you ever been in that position? Maybe you just passed your driver's license or taken over a department at work, or you're starting your first-day full time. Whatever it is, you're excited and confident, yet apprehensive. You know you've been equipped, but the position comes with great responsibility.

Mainly, that was the message Jesus was giving his disciples when he told them to "Go, therefore, into all the world and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit." Jesus knew the Father had a plan, and that plan involved his disciples starting a global, nation-changing movement. It seems Jesus wasn't just looking for people to "get saved." He was looking for followers who would go and see nations transformed and discipled. 

Jesus also knew the best way for that to happen was for him to take up his seat beside the Father and send his Spirit to empower the disciples to carry out the task. He understood the strengths and weaknesses of the disciples and the generations of disciples who would follow. He knew we had both capacity to believe and the propensity for fear and doubt. A beautiful partnership is formed in the weakness and diversity of mankind, together with the power and presence of God, to reveal Jesus and his Kingdom to the nations.

Today, that mission remains. We are the next and possibly final generation to carry out the mission before Jesus' return. It begins right here, with you and me reaching the one next door, across the street, at the store, in the next cubicle or office. It begins with a wave, a kind word, or a helping hand while taking an interest in who they are. A relationship is built, conversations develop, and discipleship begins.

Reflection:
Who is the one you can begin a relationship with today? Sound hard? Here's the good news. Jesus promised His Spirit to teach and guide us every step of the way. 

Praise + Prayer:
Father, thank you for the Holy Spirit, who lives in and empowers us to share Jesus and make disciples. We ask for a fresh outpouring of your Spirit to see whole nations begin to call on the name of Jesus. Amen.