Power Exemplified Through John’s Purpose

…the Word of God came to John son of Zechariah in the desert. He went into all the country around the Jordan, preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. (Luke 2: 2b,3 NIV)

John’s purpose

The prophet, Isaiah, foretold John’s purpose:

• “A voice of one calling in the desert,
• Prepare the way for the Lord,
• make straight paths for Him.
• Every valley shall be filled in,
• every mountain and hill made low.
• The crooked roads shall become straight,
• the rough ways smooth.
• And all mankind will see God’s salvation.”

Powerful

This is enough to make us stand, take a deep breath, and begin to shout praises to our Lord, Jesus Christ. John’s calling was powerful! How was he going to carry out such an anticipated calling…by the Word of God that came to him. In John 1, scripture states in the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. This was my favorite verse to share with new christians when I helped counsel during Judgement House, a fall drama ministry. It’s easy for us to understand the Bible as the Word of God. We notch up a level to understand this Word came in human form. Jesus is the Word. This is where John received his power and knowledge to know and carry out his mission.

Power of the Holy Spirit

How many are confused on what direction to take in life? I followed unnecessary detour signs. Sadly, delaying my own calling. A trick satan plays on all of us. Yet, the same power that was in John, is available to us. Jesus says we will do even greater things than He did while on earth. We become calm, pray, and ask Jesus to fill us with such power. Of course, God will evaluate our hearts to know if we are sincere. Too many people get stressed about receiving such power from the Holy Spirit. I spent years asking God not to embarrass me. When I say God is patient, trust me, I know. Maybe, it was more like, God, please do not move me out of my comfort zone. However, how wonderful to know when we receive God’s power, we no longer have to depend on our own. It’s okay to be weak when you are a child of Christ. When we are weak, He is strong. Honestly, God cannot do much with an arrogant individual. He will let this person keep wondering in the desert until we come to the end of ourselves.

Jesus

Whatever your need is today, Jesus is willing to help you. As He makes paths straight and rough ways smooth, faith begins to build. Faith builds because our trust grows. We serve an amazing God. He is faithful. Forward Friday! Let’s move forward asking God to fill us full of His power. This will be a great step forward!

Be encouraged!