"I started to experience unexpected joy..."
Scripture Reference: Acts 2:3 “They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest of each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the spirit enabled them.
These verses remind me of God’s consistently generous nature. It’s one thing to know in my head but another to experience that nature in real life. While the Bible refers to actual languages – couldn’t He just as easily speak through us in “languages” others understand?
Recently, I experienced this while providing routine caregiving for loved ones who live out of town. It wasn’t hard physically but emotionally, I resented it. I was angry and I was tired. I was too fatigued to pray a “pretty prayer,” so I just said, “Lord, I don’t get this. I can’t continue because I’m running out. Help.”
The next day when I returned to complete my tasks, my weariness was replaced with strength and my anger had become compassion. I started to experience unexpected joy and with it, God gave me hope. A wave of encouragement rose in me because He’s also got a great “track record.” He’s been generous throughout history.
When it was time to come home, I was grateful for God’s good and giving nature, and that the same Holy Spirit that enabled thousands to speak with his abilities was available to me – especially in that very vulnerable moment.
Those around you will hear in their “own languages” as the Holy Spirit speaks through you. It’s okay if you don’t hear an audible voice! Those “nudgings” you sense are just as valid.
In these particular days of uncertainty, we can be sure God’s Holy Spirit is available to each of us and that it comes to rest on us. His Spirit is the ultimate “translator” – allowing us to communicate with others and enabling them to hear in their spirits and to see Him in action. What about the language of compassion as you listen? Or the language of love as you provide to those around you? Or your creative expression that adds unexpected beauty to a situation?
Action point: Ask God to show you how His Spirit expresses itself in your life and thank Him that He fills you with it – completely, for all times – not just today.
I invite you to pray this prayer with me: “Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of Your Spirit, and the unique way in which You speak through me to others. Give me the strength to be vulnerable and authentic with You, and seek ways for Your Spirit to “speak” through me. May I be cognizant of Your nudging, and obedient to say “yes” to You. In Your son’s name I pray, Amen.”
