Do not quench the Spirit. (1 Thessalonians 5:19) We cannot prevent God from accomplishing His work in the world around us, but we can quench His Spirit in our lives. God has given us the freedom to withstand the Holy Spirit’s activity in our lives. When we ignore, disobey, or reject what the Spirit is […]
Henry Blackaby Devotional: Sitting at Jesus' Feet and the Art of Balance
But Martha was distracted with much serving, and she approached Him and said, “Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Therefore tell her to help me.” (Luke 10:40) Martha loved Jesus dearly and would have done anything for Him. Her struggle came in being still! Martha spent so […]
Henry Blackaby Devotional: The Day of the Lord
For you yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so comes as a thief in the night. (1 Thessalonians 5:2) In the Scriptures, the exhortation to prepare for the day of the Lord is usually given to God’s people, rather than to unbelievers. Christians must be prepared for Christ’s return, so that they […]
Henry Blackaby Devotional: Do Not Judge
Judge not, and you shall not be judged. Condemn not, and you shall not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. (Luke 6:37) There is a significant difference between judgment and discernment. God sees people’s hearts and knows their motives (Prov. 16:2). Only God can accurately judge those who deserve punishment. Ultimately, Christ will […]
From Groaning to Glory (Part 4 of 4)
The third type of groaning is the Spirit groaning on our behalf in intercessory prayer. It’s very encouraging to know that while many times, we don’t know what to do. We don’t know what God’s will is in many specific instances of our lives. But the Spirit knows exactly what to pray for in every […]
From Groaning to Glory (Part 3 of 4)
Groaning over sin. Groaning starts with a sense of problem. Then, I believe groaning grows into something deeper. This second type of groaning is one of longing. The groaning that longs for full redemption.