And You Shall Receive Power
POWER FOR A PURPOSE
Six Days of Pursuing the Holy Spirit
Foreword — We Need More of the Holy Spirit
There is a difference between knowing about the Holy Spirit and intentionally pursuing a relationship with Him.
We can attend church, sing the songs, hear the preaching, and become familiar with the language of Christianity while neglecting the very presence of God that empowers us to live it.
In this week's message, Pastor Tom reminded us that the church was never called to live powerless. Jesus promised His disciples that they would receive power when the Holy Spirit came upon them. But that power was not given merely to create a memorable spiritual experience. It was given so they could become witnesses of Jesus Christ.
That same challenge confronts us today.
Are we simply attending church, or are we allowing the Holy Spirit to transform our lives? Are we making room for prayer? Are we spending time in God's Word? Are we standing firm when our faith is challenged? Are we allowing the Holy Spirit to lead us beyond the walls of the church?
Over the next six days, we're going to walk through the Scriptures and rediscover what it means to pursue the Holy Spirit.
We'll explore the promise of His power, the difference between light and darkness, the importance of prayer and spiritual preparation, the events of Pentecost, the call to stand firm, and the invitation to continually seek more of God's presence.
This devotional isn't about chasing a feeling or trying to manufacture an experience.
It's about surrendering our hearts to the Holy Spirit.
Because the church doesn't just need another moment.
We need the presence and power of God operating in our everyday lives.
Before you begin, pray one simple prayer:
Holy Spirit, teach me to know You more deeply, surrender to You more completely, and live for Jesus more boldly.
Let's begin.
There is a difference between knowing about the Holy Spirit and intentionally pursuing a relationship with Him.
We can attend church, sing the songs, hear the preaching, and become familiar with the language of Christianity while neglecting the very presence of God that empowers us to live it.
In this week's message, Pastor Tom reminded us that the church was never called to live powerless. Jesus promised His disciples that they would receive power when the Holy Spirit came upon them. But that power was not given merely to create a memorable spiritual experience. It was given so they could become witnesses of Jesus Christ.
That same challenge confronts us today.
Are we simply attending church, or are we allowing the Holy Spirit to transform our lives? Are we making room for prayer? Are we spending time in God's Word? Are we standing firm when our faith is challenged? Are we allowing the Holy Spirit to lead us beyond the walls of the church?
Over the next six days, we're going to walk through the Scriptures and rediscover what it means to pursue the Holy Spirit.
We'll explore the promise of His power, the difference between light and darkness, the importance of prayer and spiritual preparation, the events of Pentecost, the call to stand firm, and the invitation to continually seek more of God's presence.
This devotional isn't about chasing a feeling or trying to manufacture an experience.
It's about surrendering our hearts to the Holy Spirit.
Because the church doesn't just need another moment.
We need the presence and power of God operating in our everyday lives.
Before you begin, pray one simple prayer:
Holy Spirit, teach me to know You more deeply, surrender to You more completely, and live for Jesus more boldly.
Let's begin.
Day 1 — You Have Been Given Power for a Purpose
MAIN SCRIPTURE: ACTS 1:8
Supporting Scriptures: Luke 24:49; Acts 2:1–4; John 15:26–27; 2 Timothy 1:7–8
Devotional
What comes to mind when you hear the word power?
Maybe you think of strength, authority, electricity, or the ability to overcome something that once seemed impossible.
But when Jesus spoke to His disciples in Acts 1:8, He wasn't promising them political influence, worldly success, or an easier life.
He promised them the power of the Holy Spirit.
And He told them exactly why they needed it.
“Ye shall be witnesses unto me.”
That changes everything.
The power of the Holy Spirit was never intended to be something the disciples experienced and then kept to themselves. It was meant to transform the way they lived and enable them to carry the message of Jesus beyond Jerusalem.
Think about who Jesus was speaking to.
These were ordinary people. Some had struggled with fear. Some had doubted. Peter had even denied knowing Jesus.
Yet Jesus still chose them to carry His message.
Why?
Because the success of their assignment would not depend entirely on their natural abilities. They would be empowered by the Holy Spirit.
Pastor reminded us that when the Holy Spirit truly begins working in someone's life, that person is called into action.
Prayer becomes important. God's Word becomes important. Witnessing becomes important. Obedience becomes important.
The Holy Spirit doesn't simply make us feel something during a worship service. He empowers us to live differently after the service ends.
You may feel unqualified to speak to someone about Jesus. You may feel spiritually weak. You may look at the challenges in your family, workplace, or community and wonder what difference you could possibly make.
But God has never required you to accomplish His purposes through your strength alone.
He calls you to depend on Him.
And here's the question for today:
Are you asking God for power simply to improve your circumstances, or are you asking Him to empower you to fulfill His purpose?
The Holy Spirit's work is not limited to the sanctuary.
He empowers you to demonstrate patience at home, courage in difficult conversations, compassion toward hurting people, and faithfulness when nobody is watching.
The same Spirit who empowered the early church is able to strengthen believers today.
Don't settle for knowing the promise.
Begin living with its purpose.
Reflection
Heavenly Father, thank You for the promise of the Holy Spirit. Forgive me for the times I've tried to live this Christian life through my own strength. I don't want to simply know about Your power. I want Your Spirit to shape my thoughts, my words, my decisions, and my actions. Give me boldness to represent Jesus wherever You place me. Let my life point people toward You. In Jesus' name, amen.
Activation
Before leaving home today, ask the Holy Spirit to guide your conversations. Look for one opportunity to encourage someone, pray with someone, or share what Jesus has done in your life.
Declaration
I have been called to a purpose greater than myself. I will depend on the Holy Spirit, walk in obedience, and boldly represent Jesus Christ.
MAIN SCRIPTURE: ACTS 1:8
Supporting Scriptures: Luke 24:49; Acts 2:1–4; John 15:26–27; 2 Timothy 1:7–8
Devotional
What comes to mind when you hear the word power?
Maybe you think of strength, authority, electricity, or the ability to overcome something that once seemed impossible.
But when Jesus spoke to His disciples in Acts 1:8, He wasn't promising them political influence, worldly success, or an easier life.
He promised them the power of the Holy Spirit.
And He told them exactly why they needed it.
“Ye shall be witnesses unto me.”
That changes everything.
The power of the Holy Spirit was never intended to be something the disciples experienced and then kept to themselves. It was meant to transform the way they lived and enable them to carry the message of Jesus beyond Jerusalem.
Think about who Jesus was speaking to.
These were ordinary people. Some had struggled with fear. Some had doubted. Peter had even denied knowing Jesus.
Yet Jesus still chose them to carry His message.
Why?
Because the success of their assignment would not depend entirely on their natural abilities. They would be empowered by the Holy Spirit.
Pastor reminded us that when the Holy Spirit truly begins working in someone's life, that person is called into action.
Prayer becomes important. God's Word becomes important. Witnessing becomes important. Obedience becomes important.
The Holy Spirit doesn't simply make us feel something during a worship service. He empowers us to live differently after the service ends.
You may feel unqualified to speak to someone about Jesus. You may feel spiritually weak. You may look at the challenges in your family, workplace, or community and wonder what difference you could possibly make.
But God has never required you to accomplish His purposes through your strength alone.
He calls you to depend on Him.
And here's the question for today:
Are you asking God for power simply to improve your circumstances, or are you asking Him to empower you to fulfill His purpose?
The Holy Spirit's work is not limited to the sanctuary.
He empowers you to demonstrate patience at home, courage in difficult conversations, compassion toward hurting people, and faithfulness when nobody is watching.
The same Spirit who empowered the early church is able to strengthen believers today.
Don't settle for knowing the promise.
Begin living with its purpose.
Reflection
- Have I been more focused on experiencing God's presence than allowing Him to change my daily life?
- Where do I need greater boldness to represent Jesus?
- What is one way I can be a witness this week?
Heavenly Father, thank You for the promise of the Holy Spirit. Forgive me for the times I've tried to live this Christian life through my own strength. I don't want to simply know about Your power. I want Your Spirit to shape my thoughts, my words, my decisions, and my actions. Give me boldness to represent Jesus wherever You place me. Let my life point people toward You. In Jesus' name, amen.
Activation
Before leaving home today, ask the Holy Spirit to guide your conversations. Look for one opportunity to encourage someone, pray with someone, or share what Jesus has done in your life.
Declaration
I have been called to a purpose greater than myself. I will depend on the Holy Spirit, walk in obedience, and boldly represent Jesus Christ.
Day 2 — Children of Light
MAIN SCRIPTURE: JOHN 1:4–5
Supporting Scriptures: 1 John 1:5–7; Ephesians 5:8–11; 2 Corinthians 6:14; Colossians 1:13–14
Devotional
From the beginning of Scripture, light has been a powerful picture of God's goodness, truth, and life.
John tells us that Jesus is the Light who shines in the darkness.
And darkness cannot overcome Him.
That is important because the world we live in often feels spiritually confusing.
We are surrounded by competing voices, influences, ideas, and beliefs. Some openly reject God's Word. Others attempt to blend Christian faith with practices that contradict what Scripture teaches.
this week we want to challenge the church to recognize that spiritual darkness is real and that followers of Jesus are called to live differently.
But notice something important about John 1:5.
The emphasis isn't on how powerful darkness is.
The emphasis is on the victory of the Light.
Jesus Christ is not struggling to become greater than darkness.
He already is greater.
Through His death and resurrection, Jesus has accomplished what we could never accomplish for ourselves.
And because we belong to Him, we are called to walk in His light.
Ephesians 5:8 reminds believers that they were once darkness, but now they are light in the Lord.
That means our lives should reflect a different direction.
We don't have to be fascinated by everything that promises hidden knowledge or supernatural power. We have access to the truth of God's Word and the guidance of His Spirit.
Walking in the light also means allowing God to expose darkness within our own hearts.
Bitterness, dishonesty, unforgiveness, pride, and secret compromise can quietly weaken our spiritual lives.
Sometimes we spend so much time identifying what is wrong around us that we neglect what God wants to change within us.
The Holy Spirit doesn't only help us recognize what is false.
He leads us into truth.
And as we surrender to Him, our lives begin to reflect the character of Jesus.
We become people of integrity, compassion, holiness, and courage.
We do not defeat darkness by becoming consumed with it. We overcome it by remaining faithful to Jesus, the Light of the world.
Reflection
Prayer
Father, thank You for sending Jesus, the Light of the world. Help me recognize anything in my life that is drawing me away from You. Give me discernment through Your Word and the guidance of Your Spirit. Teach me to reject what is harmful and pursue what is holy. Let my home, my relationships, and my decisions reflect Your light. In Jesus' name, amen.
Activation
Take ten minutes to examine what you're regularly watching, listening to, reading, and allowing to influence your thinking. Identify one change that would help you focus more intentionally on Christ.
Declaration
I belong to Jesus Christ. I am called to walk in His light, stand upon His truth, and reflect His character in every area of my life.
MAIN SCRIPTURE: JOHN 1:4–5
Supporting Scriptures: 1 John 1:5–7; Ephesians 5:8–11; 2 Corinthians 6:14; Colossians 1:13–14
Devotional
From the beginning of Scripture, light has been a powerful picture of God's goodness, truth, and life.
John tells us that Jesus is the Light who shines in the darkness.
And darkness cannot overcome Him.
That is important because the world we live in often feels spiritually confusing.
We are surrounded by competing voices, influences, ideas, and beliefs. Some openly reject God's Word. Others attempt to blend Christian faith with practices that contradict what Scripture teaches.
this week we want to challenge the church to recognize that spiritual darkness is real and that followers of Jesus are called to live differently.
But notice something important about John 1:5.
The emphasis isn't on how powerful darkness is.
The emphasis is on the victory of the Light.
Jesus Christ is not struggling to become greater than darkness.
He already is greater.
Through His death and resurrection, Jesus has accomplished what we could never accomplish for ourselves.
And because we belong to Him, we are called to walk in His light.
Ephesians 5:8 reminds believers that they were once darkness, but now they are light in the Lord.
That means our lives should reflect a different direction.
We don't have to be fascinated by everything that promises hidden knowledge or supernatural power. We have access to the truth of God's Word and the guidance of His Spirit.
Walking in the light also means allowing God to expose darkness within our own hearts.
Bitterness, dishonesty, unforgiveness, pride, and secret compromise can quietly weaken our spiritual lives.
Sometimes we spend so much time identifying what is wrong around us that we neglect what God wants to change within us.
The Holy Spirit doesn't only help us recognize what is false.
He leads us into truth.
And as we surrender to Him, our lives begin to reflect the character of Jesus.
We become people of integrity, compassion, holiness, and courage.
We do not defeat darkness by becoming consumed with it. We overcome it by remaining faithful to Jesus, the Light of the world.
Reflection
- What influences have I allowed into my life that may be pulling my attention away from Christ?
- Is there an area of compromise the Holy Spirit has been convicting me about?
- How can my home become a place where God's truth is consistently taught and lived?
Prayer
Father, thank You for sending Jesus, the Light of the world. Help me recognize anything in my life that is drawing me away from You. Give me discernment through Your Word and the guidance of Your Spirit. Teach me to reject what is harmful and pursue what is holy. Let my home, my relationships, and my decisions reflect Your light. In Jesus' name, amen.
Activation
Take ten minutes to examine what you're regularly watching, listening to, reading, and allowing to influence your thinking. Identify one change that would help you focus more intentionally on Christ.
Declaration
I belong to Jesus Christ. I am called to walk in His light, stand upon His truth, and reflect His character in every area of my life.
Day 3 — Get Back on the Wall
MAIN SCRIPTURE: EPHESIANS 6:10–18
Supporting Scriptures: Mark 9:14–29; Matthew 26:41; James 4:7–8; 1 Peter 5:8–9; 2 Corinthians 10:3–5
Devotional
One of the strongest challenges Pastor gave the church was this:
We need believers who are willing to get back on the wall.
People who will pray.
People who will fast.
People who will stand firm in their faith.
People who understand that following Jesus requires more than showing up on Sunday morning.
In Ephesians 6, Paul describes the Christian life as a spiritual battle.
But he begins with an instruction we cannot afford to overlook:
“Be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.” — Ephesians 6:10 (KJV)
Notice where our strength comes from.
Not our personalities.
Not our confidence.
Not our religious accomplishments.
Our strength comes from the Lord.
Paul then describes the armor of God: truth, righteousness, the gospel of peace, faith, salvation, and the Word of God.
And he concludes by emphasizing prayer.
This is what spiritual preparation looks like.
It's not about trying to prove how powerful we are. It's about becoming so dependent on God that we refuse to face life's battles without Him.
Think about the disciples in Mark 9.
A desperate father brought his suffering son to them, but they could not help him.
Jesus ultimately delivered the boy, and the disciples later asked why they had been unable to do so.
Jesus pointed them toward the necessity of prayer. Some traditional translations and manuscripts also include fasting in this passage.
The lesson is not that prayer is a formula for controlling spiritual outcomes.
It is that a life of spiritual dependence cannot be replaced by occasional religious activity.
You cannot neglect your relationship with God all week and expect spiritual maturity to appear automatically when trouble comes.
A strong prayer life is developed through consistency.
A deeper understanding of Scripture comes through studying it.
Discernment grows as we learn to recognize the truth of God's Word.
And spiritual endurance develops as we continue trusting God through difficult seasons.
Maybe your family is walking through a challenging time.
Maybe you're exhausted.
Maybe you've become spiritually distracted.
Today is an invitation to return to the place of prayer.
Not because God has abandoned you.
But because He is inviting you to draw near again.
The battle may be real, but you do not have to fight it in your own strength.
Reflection
Prayer
Lord, strengthen me in Your might. Teach me to stand firm in Your truth and to put on the whole armor of God. Restore consistency to my prayer life and hunger for Your Word. Help me recognize that the people around me are not my enemies. Give me wisdom, humility, courage, and endurance. I surrender my battles to You. In Jesus' name, amen.
Activation
Set aside fifteen uninterrupted minutes today for prayer and Scripture. Pray specifically for your family, your church, your community, and someone who needs encouragement.
If you choose to fast, do so wisely and in a way appropriate for your health.
Declaration
I will stand firm in the Lord. I will not allow fear or distraction to determine my spiritual life. I will pray, trust God's Word, and remain faithful.
MAIN SCRIPTURE: EPHESIANS 6:10–18
Supporting Scriptures: Mark 9:14–29; Matthew 26:41; James 4:7–8; 1 Peter 5:8–9; 2 Corinthians 10:3–5
Devotional
One of the strongest challenges Pastor gave the church was this:
We need believers who are willing to get back on the wall.
People who will pray.
People who will fast.
People who will stand firm in their faith.
People who understand that following Jesus requires more than showing up on Sunday morning.
In Ephesians 6, Paul describes the Christian life as a spiritual battle.
But he begins with an instruction we cannot afford to overlook:
“Be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.” — Ephesians 6:10 (KJV)
Notice where our strength comes from.
Not our personalities.
Not our confidence.
Not our religious accomplishments.
Our strength comes from the Lord.
Paul then describes the armor of God: truth, righteousness, the gospel of peace, faith, salvation, and the Word of God.
And he concludes by emphasizing prayer.
This is what spiritual preparation looks like.
It's not about trying to prove how powerful we are. It's about becoming so dependent on God that we refuse to face life's battles without Him.
Think about the disciples in Mark 9.
A desperate father brought his suffering son to them, but they could not help him.
Jesus ultimately delivered the boy, and the disciples later asked why they had been unable to do so.
Jesus pointed them toward the necessity of prayer. Some traditional translations and manuscripts also include fasting in this passage.
The lesson is not that prayer is a formula for controlling spiritual outcomes.
It is that a life of spiritual dependence cannot be replaced by occasional religious activity.
You cannot neglect your relationship with God all week and expect spiritual maturity to appear automatically when trouble comes.
A strong prayer life is developed through consistency.
A deeper understanding of Scripture comes through studying it.
Discernment grows as we learn to recognize the truth of God's Word.
And spiritual endurance develops as we continue trusting God through difficult seasons.
Maybe your family is walking through a challenging time.
Maybe you're exhausted.
Maybe you've become spiritually distracted.
Today is an invitation to return to the place of prayer.
Not because God has abandoned you.
But because He is inviting you to draw near again.
The battle may be real, but you do not have to fight it in your own strength.
Reflection
- Have I become spiritually comfortable or distracted?
- What has been competing with my prayer life?
- Am I approaching challenges through fear, or through faith and dependence on God?
Prayer
Lord, strengthen me in Your might. Teach me to stand firm in Your truth and to put on the whole armor of God. Restore consistency to my prayer life and hunger for Your Word. Help me recognize that the people around me are not my enemies. Give me wisdom, humility, courage, and endurance. I surrender my battles to You. In Jesus' name, amen.
Activation
Set aside fifteen uninterrupted minutes today for prayer and Scripture. Pray specifically for your family, your church, your community, and someone who needs encouragement.
If you choose to fast, do so wisely and in a way appropriate for your health.
Declaration
I will stand firm in the Lord. I will not allow fear or distraction to determine my spiritual life. I will pray, trust God's Word, and remain faithful.
Day 4 — From Passover to Pentecost
MAIN SCRIPTURE: ACTS 2:1–4
Supporting Scriptures: Exodus 12:1–14; Luke 24:46–49; John 20:19–22; Acts 2:32–39; 1 Corinthians 5:7
Devotional
this week, Pastor Tom connected two important biblical celebrations: Passover and Pentecost.
Passover remembered God's deliverance of Israel from Egypt.
The Israelites were instructed to place the blood of a lamb on their doorposts, and God delivered them from judgment.
Centuries later, Jesus fulfilled the greater meaning of Passover through His sacrifice on the cross.
His blood made forgiveness and reconciliation with God possible.
But the story didn't end with the cross.
Jesus rose from the dead.
He appeared to His disciples.
And He instructed them to wait for the promise of the Father.
Then came Pentecost.
Acts 2 tells us that the disciples were gathered together when the sound of a rushing mighty wind filled the house.
Tongues resembling fire appeared, and they were filled with the Holy Spirit.
They began speaking in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.
What followed was extraordinary.
Peter, who had once denied Jesus, stood and proclaimed the gospel boldly.
People heard the message of Christ.
Thousands responded.
And the church began growing.
Pastor summarized this connection by emphasizing that Passover represents deliverance, while Pentecost represents empowerment.
It's a powerful way to understand the movement of the biblical story.
Jesus saves us.
And the Holy Spirit empowers us to live for Him.
The Holy Spirit is not an afterthought in God's plan.
He is the promised Helper, the Spirit of truth, the One who glorifies Jesus and equips the church for its mission.
Within our Pentecostal tradition, we believe the baptism in the Holy Spirit and spiritual gifts remain available to believers today.
But we must remember the purpose behind the promise.
Pentecost was not simply about an extraordinary moment in an upper room.
It was the beginning of a Spirit-empowered witness that would reach the nations.
The disciples didn't remain in the upper room forever.
They went into the world.
And the gospel spread.
An encounter with the Holy Spirit should move us toward a life that reveals Jesus.
Reflection
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for the sacrifice and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Thank You for the promise of the Holy Spirit. I don't want to settle for a distant or routine relationship with You. Deepen my understanding of Your Word, strengthen my faith, and fill my life with Your presence. Help me become a faithful witness of Jesus. In His name, amen.
Activation
Read Acts 2 in its entirety. Notice what happens after the disciples are filled with the Holy Spirit. Write down three ways the early church demonstrated its faith through action.
Declaration
Jesus Christ is my Savior, and the Holy Spirit is my Helper. I will pursue God's presence and allow His power to lead me into His purpose.
MAIN SCRIPTURE: ACTS 2:1–4
Supporting Scriptures: Exodus 12:1–14; Luke 24:46–49; John 20:19–22; Acts 2:32–39; 1 Corinthians 5:7
Devotional
this week, Pastor Tom connected two important biblical celebrations: Passover and Pentecost.
Passover remembered God's deliverance of Israel from Egypt.
The Israelites were instructed to place the blood of a lamb on their doorposts, and God delivered them from judgment.
Centuries later, Jesus fulfilled the greater meaning of Passover through His sacrifice on the cross.
His blood made forgiveness and reconciliation with God possible.
But the story didn't end with the cross.
Jesus rose from the dead.
He appeared to His disciples.
And He instructed them to wait for the promise of the Father.
Then came Pentecost.
Acts 2 tells us that the disciples were gathered together when the sound of a rushing mighty wind filled the house.
Tongues resembling fire appeared, and they were filled with the Holy Spirit.
They began speaking in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.
What followed was extraordinary.
Peter, who had once denied Jesus, stood and proclaimed the gospel boldly.
People heard the message of Christ.
Thousands responded.
And the church began growing.
Pastor summarized this connection by emphasizing that Passover represents deliverance, while Pentecost represents empowerment.
It's a powerful way to understand the movement of the biblical story.
Jesus saves us.
And the Holy Spirit empowers us to live for Him.
The Holy Spirit is not an afterthought in God's plan.
He is the promised Helper, the Spirit of truth, the One who glorifies Jesus and equips the church for its mission.
Within our Pentecostal tradition, we believe the baptism in the Holy Spirit and spiritual gifts remain available to believers today.
But we must remember the purpose behind the promise.
Pentecost was not simply about an extraordinary moment in an upper room.
It was the beginning of a Spirit-empowered witness that would reach the nations.
The disciples didn't remain in the upper room forever.
They went into the world.
And the gospel spread.
An encounter with the Holy Spirit should move us toward a life that reveals Jesus.
Reflection
- Have I allowed my relationship with God to become routine?
- What does the promise of the Holy Spirit mean for my everyday life?
- Am I allowing God to move me beyond personal experiences into obedience and service?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for the sacrifice and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Thank You for the promise of the Holy Spirit. I don't want to settle for a distant or routine relationship with You. Deepen my understanding of Your Word, strengthen my faith, and fill my life with Your presence. Help me become a faithful witness of Jesus. In His name, amen.
Activation
Read Acts 2 in its entirety. Notice what happens after the disciples are filled with the Holy Spirit. Write down three ways the early church demonstrated its faith through action.
Declaration
Jesus Christ is my Savior, and the Holy Spirit is my Helper. I will pursue God's presence and allow His power to lead me into His purpose.
Day 5 — A Faith That Stands Firm
MAIN SCRIPTURE: ACTS 19:11–20
Supporting Scriptures: Acts 16:16–18; James 4:7; 1 John 4:1–4; 2 Timothy 2:19–22; Ephesians 6:10–18
Devotional
One of the most memorable passages this week was the account of the seven sons of Sceva in Acts 19.
These men attempted to confront an evil spirit by invoking the name of Jesus whom Paul preached.
But they did not possess the relationship with Christ they were trying to imitate.
Their attempt ended disastrously.
The story reminds us of an important truth:
You cannot substitute someone else's relationship with Jesus for your own.
You can admire another person's faith.
You can learn from their prayer life.
You can listen to powerful preaching and study the experiences of great men and women of God.
But eventually, your faith must become personal.
You must know Jesus for yourself.
The sons of Sceva tried to borrow spiritual authority without the genuine foundation of faith.
That is a warning against treating the name of Jesus as a magical formula.
Our confidence isn't found in saying certain words loudly enough or repeating what someone else has done.
Our confidence rests in Jesus Christ Himself.
And our calling is to submit to Him.
The account continues by describing how many people in Ephesus turned away from practices associated with magic and publicly abandoned those things.
Their repentance was visible.
They weren't merely interested in adding Jesus to their existing way of life.
They were willing to change.
That is what genuine discipleship requires.
Sometimes following Jesus means laying something down.
Sometimes it means walking away from an influence, habit, or relationship that continually pulls us toward compromise.
Sometimes it means admitting that we have been spiritually careless.
But we don't have to respond with fear.
First John 4:4 reminds believers that the One who is in us is greater than the one who is in the world.
We don't need to become fascinated with darkness.
We need to become firmly rooted in Christ.
When you know who you belong to, you don't have to imitate someone else's faith.
You can develop your own walk with God.
Don't live on borrowed faith. Build a genuine relationship with Jesus.
Reflection
Prayer
Jesus, I want to know You personally. Forgive me for the times I've relied on religious habits instead of developing a genuine relationship with You. Search my heart and reveal anything that needs to change. Give me the courage to repent, the wisdom to discern truth, and the strength to stand firm. I belong to You, and I want my life to reflect that. Amen.
Activation
Write down one area where you've been relying on someone else's spiritual strength. Make a practical commitment to grow personally through prayer, Bible study, or accountability with a mature believer.
Declaration
My faith is personal. I belong to Jesus Christ. I will not live on borrowed convictions. I will know His Word, follow His truth, and stand firm in Him.
MAIN SCRIPTURE: ACTS 19:11–20
Supporting Scriptures: Acts 16:16–18; James 4:7; 1 John 4:1–4; 2 Timothy 2:19–22; Ephesians 6:10–18
Devotional
One of the most memorable passages this week was the account of the seven sons of Sceva in Acts 19.
These men attempted to confront an evil spirit by invoking the name of Jesus whom Paul preached.
But they did not possess the relationship with Christ they were trying to imitate.
Their attempt ended disastrously.
The story reminds us of an important truth:
You cannot substitute someone else's relationship with Jesus for your own.
You can admire another person's faith.
You can learn from their prayer life.
You can listen to powerful preaching and study the experiences of great men and women of God.
But eventually, your faith must become personal.
You must know Jesus for yourself.
The sons of Sceva tried to borrow spiritual authority without the genuine foundation of faith.
That is a warning against treating the name of Jesus as a magical formula.
Our confidence isn't found in saying certain words loudly enough or repeating what someone else has done.
Our confidence rests in Jesus Christ Himself.
And our calling is to submit to Him.
The account continues by describing how many people in Ephesus turned away from practices associated with magic and publicly abandoned those things.
Their repentance was visible.
They weren't merely interested in adding Jesus to their existing way of life.
They were willing to change.
That is what genuine discipleship requires.
Sometimes following Jesus means laying something down.
Sometimes it means walking away from an influence, habit, or relationship that continually pulls us toward compromise.
Sometimes it means admitting that we have been spiritually careless.
But we don't have to respond with fear.
First John 4:4 reminds believers that the One who is in us is greater than the one who is in the world.
We don't need to become fascinated with darkness.
We need to become firmly rooted in Christ.
When you know who you belong to, you don't have to imitate someone else's faith.
You can develop your own walk with God.
Don't live on borrowed faith. Build a genuine relationship with Jesus.
Reflection
- Is my relationship with Jesus personal, or have I been depending on the faith of people around me?
- What habits or influences might God be calling me to surrender?
- How can I strengthen my understanding of Scripture so my faith becomes more firmly rooted?
Prayer
Jesus, I want to know You personally. Forgive me for the times I've relied on religious habits instead of developing a genuine relationship with You. Search my heart and reveal anything that needs to change. Give me the courage to repent, the wisdom to discern truth, and the strength to stand firm. I belong to You, and I want my life to reflect that. Amen.
Activation
Write down one area where you've been relying on someone else's spiritual strength. Make a practical commitment to grow personally through prayer, Bible study, or accountability with a mature believer.
Declaration
My faith is personal. I belong to Jesus Christ. I will not live on borrowed convictions. I will know His Word, follow His truth, and stand firm in Him.
Day 6 — Don't Seek the Gift. Seek the Holy Spirit.
MAIN SCRIPTURE: ACTS 19:1–7
Supporting Scriptures: Acts 2:38–39; John 14:16–17; Ephesians 5:18; 1 Corinthians 12:4–11; Galatians 5:22–25; Jude 20
Devotional
in Acts 19.
Paul arrived in Ephesus and encountered a group of disciples.
He asked them an important question:
“Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed?” — Acts 19:2 (KJV)
The disciples explained that they had not even heard about the Holy Spirit in the way Paul was describing.
Paul instructed them further, they were baptized in the name of Jesus, and when he laid his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came upon them.
They spoke in tongues and prophesied. this passage demonstrates that the work of the Holy Spirit continued beyond the events of Acts 2.
And the challenged to the church is not to neglect the power God has promised.
But perhaps the most important instruction came near the end of the sermon.
“Don't seek the gift, don't seek speaking in tongues. Seek the Holy Spirit.”
The Holy Spirit is not a spiritual experience to collect.
He is not a moment to manufacture.
And His presence is not something we can reduce to one outward expression.
He is the Spirit of God.
Jesus described Him as the Comforter and the Spirit of truth.
He teaches, guides, convicts, strengthens, and glorifies Christ.
The New Testament also teaches that the Holy Spirit distributes spiritual gifts for the good of the church.
But those gifts must never become more important to us than the One who gives them.
We can become so focused on what we want God to do through us that we neglect what He wants to do within us.
And that inner work matters.
Galatians 5 describes the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
A Spirit-filled life should be marked by both a hunger for God's power and a growing reflection of God's character.
So what should we do?
We seek Him.
We pray.
We study His Word.
We repent when necessary.
We surrender our plans.
We remain open to His leading.
And we trust Him with how He chooses to work in our lives.
Don't make the pursuit of the Holy Spirit complicated.
Begin with a sincere heart.
Ask Him to fill you, teach you, and transform you.
And then be willing to obey.
Because the greatest evidence that we are pursuing the Holy Spirit is not merely what happens in a church service.
It's how our lives increasingly point people toward Jesus.
Reflection
Prayer
Holy Spirit, I want more of Your presence in my life. Not so I can appear spiritual, impress others, or chase an emotional experience, but because I want to know God more deeply and live for Jesus more faithfully. Teach me Your truth. Correct what needs correcting. Strengthen what is weak. Develop Your fruit in my life, and empower me to serve others. I surrender myself to You. In Jesus' name, amen.
Activation
Find a quiet place and spend twenty minutes in prayer and worship. Don't rush to ask for anything. Begin by thanking God, surrendering your heart, and inviting the Holy Spirit to guide you.
Then choose one practical act of obedience to carry into the coming week.
Declaration
I will pursue the Holy Spirit, not merely an experience. I will remain rooted in God's Word, surrendered to His will, and empowered to reveal Jesus through my life.
MAIN SCRIPTURE: ACTS 19:1–7
Supporting Scriptures: Acts 2:38–39; John 14:16–17; Ephesians 5:18; 1 Corinthians 12:4–11; Galatians 5:22–25; Jude 20
Devotional
in Acts 19.
Paul arrived in Ephesus and encountered a group of disciples.
He asked them an important question:
“Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed?” — Acts 19:2 (KJV)
The disciples explained that they had not even heard about the Holy Spirit in the way Paul was describing.
Paul instructed them further, they were baptized in the name of Jesus, and when he laid his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came upon them.
They spoke in tongues and prophesied. this passage demonstrates that the work of the Holy Spirit continued beyond the events of Acts 2.
And the challenged to the church is not to neglect the power God has promised.
But perhaps the most important instruction came near the end of the sermon.
“Don't seek the gift, don't seek speaking in tongues. Seek the Holy Spirit.”
The Holy Spirit is not a spiritual experience to collect.
He is not a moment to manufacture.
And His presence is not something we can reduce to one outward expression.
He is the Spirit of God.
Jesus described Him as the Comforter and the Spirit of truth.
He teaches, guides, convicts, strengthens, and glorifies Christ.
The New Testament also teaches that the Holy Spirit distributes spiritual gifts for the good of the church.
But those gifts must never become more important to us than the One who gives them.
We can become so focused on what we want God to do through us that we neglect what He wants to do within us.
And that inner work matters.
Galatians 5 describes the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
A Spirit-filled life should be marked by both a hunger for God's power and a growing reflection of God's character.
So what should we do?
We seek Him.
We pray.
We study His Word.
We repent when necessary.
We surrender our plans.
We remain open to His leading.
And we trust Him with how He chooses to work in our lives.
Don't make the pursuit of the Holy Spirit complicated.
Begin with a sincere heart.
Ask Him to fill you, teach you, and transform you.
And then be willing to obey.
Because the greatest evidence that we are pursuing the Holy Spirit is not merely what happens in a church service.
It's how our lives increasingly point people toward Jesus.
Reflection
- Am I pursuing the Holy Spirit Himself, or am I more interested in a particular experience?
- Which fruit of the Spirit needs to grow in my life?
- What would change if I intentionally invited the Holy Spirit to guide every part of my day?
Prayer
Holy Spirit, I want more of Your presence in my life. Not so I can appear spiritual, impress others, or chase an emotional experience, but because I want to know God more deeply and live for Jesus more faithfully. Teach me Your truth. Correct what needs correcting. Strengthen what is weak. Develop Your fruit in my life, and empower me to serve others. I surrender myself to You. In Jesus' name, amen.
Activation
Find a quiet place and spend twenty minutes in prayer and worship. Don't rush to ask for anything. Begin by thanking God, surrendering your heart, and inviting the Holy Spirit to guide you.
Then choose one practical act of obedience to carry into the coming week.
Declaration
I will pursue the Holy Spirit, not merely an experience. I will remain rooted in God's Word, surrendered to His will, and empowered to reveal Jesus through my life.
Last Thought — We Need More
Six days ago, we began with a simple truth:
God has given His people power for a purpose.
That purpose hasn't changed.
The church still needs the Holy Spirit.
Our families need believers who pray.
Our communities need Christians who stand for truth with courage and compassion.
Our young people need to see a faith that is genuine, not merely something practiced on Sunday morning.
And our world needs the message of Jesus Christ.
But before we can faithfully represent Him to the world, we must make room for His work within our own lives.
Throughout this devotional, we've been reminded that Jesus is the Light, that spiritual preparation matters, that the promise of the Holy Spirit empowered the early church, and that our faith must be personal.
Now comes the question:
What are we going to do with what we've learned?
Will we return to our normal routines and allow the message to fade?
Or will we begin intentionally seeking the presence of God?
You don't have to wait for another special service.
You don't have to wait for the perfect atmosphere.
You can begin today.
Open your Bible.
Return to prayer.
Make room for worship.
Surrender the areas you've been holding back.
Ask the Holy Spirit to fill your life with greater love, greater boldness, greater holiness, and greater compassion.
And remember Pastor Tom's challenge:
Don't seek the gift. Seek the Holy Spirit.
Because when we pursue Him, we aren't simply asking for a moment.
We're surrendering to a lifetime of transformation.
Final Prayer
Father, thank You for reminding us that we were never meant to live this Christian life without Your help. Restore our hunger for Your presence. Strengthen our prayer lives. Deepen our love for Your Word. Empower our church to stand firm in truth, walk in holiness, love people well, and boldly proclaim Jesus Christ. Let the Holy Spirit be welcomed in our homes, our families, and our daily lives. We want more of You. In Jesus' name, amen.
Final Declaration
I belong to Jesus Christ.
I will walk in the light.
I will stand firm in faith.
I will pursue the Holy Spirit.
I will live with purpose.
And through my life, Jesus will be glorified.
The church doesn't need less of the Holy Spirit. We need more.
Six days ago, we began with a simple truth:
God has given His people power for a purpose.
That purpose hasn't changed.
The church still needs the Holy Spirit.
Our families need believers who pray.
Our communities need Christians who stand for truth with courage and compassion.
Our young people need to see a faith that is genuine, not merely something practiced on Sunday morning.
And our world needs the message of Jesus Christ.
But before we can faithfully represent Him to the world, we must make room for His work within our own lives.
Throughout this devotional, we've been reminded that Jesus is the Light, that spiritual preparation matters, that the promise of the Holy Spirit empowered the early church, and that our faith must be personal.
Now comes the question:
What are we going to do with what we've learned?
Will we return to our normal routines and allow the message to fade?
Or will we begin intentionally seeking the presence of God?
You don't have to wait for another special service.
You don't have to wait for the perfect atmosphere.
You can begin today.
Open your Bible.
Return to prayer.
Make room for worship.
Surrender the areas you've been holding back.
Ask the Holy Spirit to fill your life with greater love, greater boldness, greater holiness, and greater compassion.
And remember Pastor Tom's challenge:
Don't seek the gift. Seek the Holy Spirit.
Because when we pursue Him, we aren't simply asking for a moment.
We're surrendering to a lifetime of transformation.
Final Prayer
Father, thank You for reminding us that we were never meant to live this Christian life without Your help. Restore our hunger for Your presence. Strengthen our prayer lives. Deepen our love for Your Word. Empower our church to stand firm in truth, walk in holiness, love people well, and boldly proclaim Jesus Christ. Let the Holy Spirit be welcomed in our homes, our families, and our daily lives. We want more of You. In Jesus' name, amen.
Final Declaration
I belong to Jesus Christ.
I will walk in the light.
I will stand firm in faith.
I will pursue the Holy Spirit.
I will live with purpose.
And through my life, Jesus will be glorified.
The church doesn't need less of the Holy Spirit. We need more.
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