In Touch 11-24-04

In Touch Daily Devotional
by Dr. Charles Stanley

Wednesday November 24, 2004
Clothed With Power
Luke 24:44-49

The power of the Holy Spirit is the dynamic, supernatural control and authority of almighty God. It is the strength by which we are enabled to serve. Tragically, too many of God's people attempt to carry out a supernatural work in their human energy.

All believers are indwelled by the Holy Spirit. But there is a considerable distinction between us having the Holy Spirit in our life and the Holy Spirit releasing His power in our life. Think about the difference between a sedan and a racecar. Both vehicles run, but what is under the hood of the racecar makes it far more powerful than the sedan. When the Spirit of God enables you, then you can perform like the racecar.

We often think that the power of the Holy Spirit is available only to pastors and missionaries; the truth is, this power is offered to every person who is willing to serve God and meet the requirements given in Scripture.

First, we need a conviction of our inadequacy. This is a willful acknowledgement that we cannot work for God without the aid of the Holy Spirit. Next, recognizing and admitting our inadequacy grows out a pure life - confession of sin and repentance are necessary to maintain fellowship with God. When we allow deliberate sin to enter our life, we short-circuit the power of the Holy Spirit. Finally, every person who appropriates divine energy has an active prayer life.

When we trust in God to provide the stamina for the work He calls us to do, we are clothed in power. Is your confidence in yourself? Or in Him?

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