Shake and Shine
Read Matthew 5:13–16
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Insight for Today
Written by Chuck Swindoll, these encouraging devotional thoughts are published seven days per week.
The War Zone
Read 1 John 2:15–17; John 15:17–18; 16:33
Daily Beatitudes
Read Matthew 5:3–10
Jesus Brings Blessing
Read Matthew 7:28–29
The crowds were amazed at his teaching, for he taught them with real authority—quite unlike their teachers of religious law. Matthew 7:28–29
Read Matthew 5, 6, and 7. Four observations come to mind while reading these Scriptures, each quite a striking contrast to standard sermons preached today.
First: He spoke these words outside rather than inside. That means they were probably delivered extemporaneously and, for sure, without the aid of voice amplification.
Jesus’ Message of Simple Faith
Read Matthew 7:28–29
When Jesus had finished saying these things, the crowds were amazed at his teaching, for he taught with real authority—quite unlike their teachers of religious law. Matthew 7:28–29
The Uncomplicated Life of Faith
Read James 4:8
Come close to God, and God will come close to you. James 4:8
Checkpoints Along the Way
Read 1 John 4:1–5
Dear friends, do not believe everyone who claims to speak by the Spirit. You must test them to see if the spirit they have comes from God. For there are many false prophets in the world. (1 John 4:1)
As we look forward to flying closer to the flame as the Spirit of God controls and transforms our lives, we need to keep a few practical and helpful checkpoints in mind.
Evidences of His Presence
Read Romans 8:16–171 Corinthians 6:19–20; 12:4–7
The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, heirs also, heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him in order that we may also be glorified with Him. (Romans 8:16–17 NASB)
How do we recognize the Spirit’s ministry? Within us and around us every day we see evidences of His dynamic power.
Evidences of the Spirit’s Empowering
Read 2 Corinthians 3:17
For the Lord is the Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. (2 Corinthians 3:17)
Understanding First Things First
Read Acts 1:8
But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and as far as the remotest part of the earth. (Acts 1:8 NASB)
Let’s return to basics...two foundational issues. One has to do with salvation, the other with being Spirit-filled.
