Endued with Power
This is the story of my revelation of the power of God, the story of His work in my life, the opening of my eyes to truth—my testimony of the Baptism in the Holy Spirit.
For three years I’ve had this blog. For three years I’ve felt the Lord leading me to share this testimony. Three years I’ve wrestled with this, fully aware of the controversy surrounding this part of Scripture. I’ve held back and given in to the lies of the enemy that I have no place sharing this testimony of the power of God without my walk with Christ portraying me as a sort of “Super Saint”. But my testimony—first and foremost of Salvation but also of His power in my life—is not about me. It’s all about Him.
And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony. ~ Revelation 12:11a
I was 21when my mother began a quest to find a new church home for herself as well as our family. Newly married and a new mom, my new family and I lived with my parents so I watched firsthand Mama’s determination Sunday after Sunday to find a new church home. We’d left our previous church and been out of church for quite a while after Mama sat down with our Pastor and questioned him about certain Scriptures. Although they disagreed, it’s important to note that Mama knew God was calling her somewhere else and she would not settle for anything less. Sunday after Sunday I watched her walk out the door and head to church after church of varied denominations. Not seeking to find a church with a specific denomination, Mama did her part to attend these various churches, prayed and continually studied Scripture, determined to be certain truth was being preached behind the pulpit. During this quest, our neighbor asked Mama where she attended church, ultimately resulting in the finding of our new church home—the church that Daddy would finally attend after years of non-churchgoing. God had answered Mama’s prayers. And so began the opening of our eyes to worship unlike we had ever known and the empowering of the Holy Spirit in the life of the Believer.
I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance. but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire. ~ Matthew 3:11
Much about this church home was new to us; however, we were quite familiar with the terms Baptism in the Holy Ghost and speaking in tongues. We’d heard about those churches where people spoke in tongues and danced and we’d believed much of what we had been told. “It’s not for today,” some would say. Others would imply or say outright that such “nonsense” was “of the devil”. Sure, it was right there in Scripture, but it just didn’t make sense. We would chalk up these experiences to emotionalism. But there was something we just couldn’t deny within the House of God in which we newly worshiped—the overwhelming Presence of God. So we nose-dived into Scripture and earnestly prayed for confirmation of truth—doctrinal Truth that Daddy was taught as a child and believed all along. God is always faithful to answer prayer.
For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little. ~ Isaiah 28:10
Little by little, we soaked in Truth as our Pastor seemingly preached specifically to us. I remember one sermon in particular on the lifting of hands in worship. I’d been praying for understanding regarding this and was amazed at how God answered via an entire sermon. Mama had taught us that the sermons preached must be backed by Scripture. So we prayed and we read and God confirmed.
And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high. ~ Luke 24:49
Jesus foretold of the promise of the Father, the enduing of power. His Word spoken was not merely a suggestion to the Disciples. It was a command to tarry and wait. As the Holy Spirit began confirming the reality of this truth, a great hunger grew within me for this gift. Why would we, as Christians, not want all our Lord has to offer?
But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth. ~ Acts 1:8
There’s nothing hidden about His purpose for this enduing of power. To be His witnesses. I needed this power. We all need this power. Long has been the argument that as Christians, we “do” have His power. And while this is true in part, we need to understand that the indwelling of His Spirit at Salvation is separate from being Baptized into His Spirit. It was after Jesus’ death and Resurrection, after the ultimate Sacrifice had been made, that He breathed on the Disciples and said, “Receive ye the Holy Ghost.” {John 20:22} Yet they would later be endued with power from on high on the day of Pentecost. Think of it this way. We are like a glass and the Holy Spirit, water. The Holy Spirit can be poured into us and fill us even to overflowing much like you could fill a glass with water to the top or even allow it to spill over. But you would have to take the glass and immerse it into the water {in this case, envision a pitcher of water}, to baptize it in the water. The Baptism in the Holy Spirit is literally a baptism into His Spirit, His power.
As we continued to study and pray, our hunger grew. I believed God wanted me, nay, commanded me to receive this Gift. So I asked. And I waited. A friend at church shared her testimony of once being in my shoes, growing and learning and desiring this Gift. She encouraged me to praise. The Holy Spirit will always testify of Jesus. So I praised and I prayed and I even fasted. For one week. I did ‘not’ receive the Baptism in the Holy Ghost after this fast. I did, however, grow more in love with Jesus. And I kept on asking and kept on believing. We’d heard preaching on speaking in tongues and again, we prayed and we studied the Scriptures. But why in the world would He choose something so seemingly odd as speaking in other tongues?
And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell. ~ James 3:6
James 3:8 goes on to say, “But the tongue can no man tame; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison.” Speaking in tongues, not only part of but also the evidence of receiving the Baptism in the Holy Spirit, requires the submitting of the tongue. Of all our members, the hardest to yield—the tongue.
I had long prayed and long passed the concern over the absurdity one might consider this speaking in other tongues. I wanted what God had for me. He commanded the Disciples to tarry and wait. I supposed I would just have to “wait”. But one night at a Bible Study, I shared my request and my thoughts concerning my “waiting” for God and His perfect timing. The Brother teaching the Study explained that I was taking that Scripture literal, that it was regarding the original outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the Day of Pentecost. He said that if I were going to take the waiting literal I might as well go to Jerusalem. Fresh revelation washed over me. This was a gift. A gift originally out poured on the Day of Pentecost and now for all who would receive.
For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the LORD our God shall call. ~ Acts 2:39
The realization that I didn’t need to wait for this Gift any more than I would need to wait for Salvation made my faith soar. That night, we prayed. That night I received the Baptism in the Holy Spirit. That night I began to speak with other tongues. After countless times for prayer to receive this gift, after enduring what many people agree as out of order and consequently refuse to have anything to do with this doctrinal truth—overzealous Saints trying to force it upon you—I received. I had been in the midst of times of confusion where one Brother would shout, “LET GO, SISTER,” while another said, “hold on, Sister.” I knew their effects on people seeking after God and their deterring people from just that. However, I would not be deterred. I had seen people out of order and I had seen genuine moves of the Holy Spirit. Our Pastor best summed it up when he said, “there will always be “wild fire” in the church. But there’s always more than enough “wet blankets” around to put out the wild fire.”
I was almost 23 when I finally received this Gift. For nearly two years I had grown and prayed and studied. And while it took me that long to realize that I simply needed to ask and believe, I wouldn’t trade that time of growth for anything. My experience has helped me to understand the struggle that many people have over this. It’s helped me to effectively explain to others the simplicity in seeking what can otherwise be portrayed as a complex experience. For 19 years I’ve experienced the difference His empowering makes. The Peter who once denied Christ thrice preached boldly the Word of God after being endued with power. I have no argument and offer no debate regarding this Gift. I will simply testify that it has been His power, even through the speaking of tongues, that has carried me through some of life’s toughest challenges. Romans 8:26 says, “Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.” No dispute over doctrine can ever refute the work of the Lord.
His people need His power more today than ever. We need times of refreshing {Acts 3:19}. There is only one criteria needed to receive this gift—Salvation. It is not a work needed for Salvation. We need nothing in addition to the grace of Jesus Christ through His shed blood in order to be saved. However, the empowering of His Spirit enables us to be His witnesses and to walk out our sanctification {being set apart and made holy}. It’s after this empowering that we are able to allow the gifts of the Spirit {1 Corinthians 12} to flow through us—the church.
If you’ve ever questioned this part of Scripture, I encourage you to prayerfully reconsider. Ask in faith expecting to receive. And then begin to praise Jesus.
Just wish to say your article is as surprising. The clearness on your submit is simply spectacular and that i can think you are an expert in this subject.
Well along with your permission allow me to snatch your RSS feed to stay updated with imminent post.
Thank you 1,000,000 and please keep up the gratifying work.
KRAKEN – Телеграм,Ссылка,зеркало,сайт.Как войти в даркнет маркетплейс кракен тг
доставка алкоголя в луганске
northfloridahouse.com
Hello colleagues, how is all, and what you would like to say concerning this piece of writing, in my view its really amazing in favor of me.
Discovered an article that will surely interest you – I recommend checking it out https://quira.ru/
buy celebrex 100mg sale – flavoxate over the counter brand indomethacin
buy celebrex 200mg online – flavoxate generic indocin 50mg usa
newsgary.com
KRAKEN – Телеграм,Ссылка,зеркало,сайт.Как войти в даркнет маркетплейс кракен войти
alahomemaster.com
Opened up interesting material – I recommend sharing this discovery http://drahthaar-forum.ru/viewtopic.php?f=30&t=11679&sid=e887a787eedf07e24d6abd47f35f77f2
buy celecoxib tablets – celecoxib 200mg tablet indomethacin tablet
How do I cancel an order of sildenafil
I advise you to order sildenafil from this site
celecoxib 200mg sale – buy celecoxib pills indomethacin 75mg cost
mebeverine over the counter – cost arcoxia buy pletal pills
buy celebrex 200mg without prescription – buy generic indocin over the counter indomethacin 75mg cost
cheap celecoxib 200mg – purchase celecoxib for sale indomethacin 75mg usa
how to get colospa without a prescription – cheap pletal buy generic pletal over the counter
Are there age restrictions for ordering sildenafil online
What’s a recommended place to buy sildenafil online
mebeverine 135 mg for sale – buy cilostazol 100 mg pills pletal medication
Found captivating reading that I’d like to offer you – you won’t regret it https://eromanxxx.ru/
Positive Atmosphere Only: The Top Cannabis in Tel Aviv
In a society where value of life is becoming more significant, many are looking for holistic means to unwind and enhance their health. In the midst of Israel’s Capital, there’s a destination that values every moment and offers just the premium marijuana items. Salutations to the Café, where the motto “Positive Vibes Solely” really comes to life.
Why should you Opt for Us?
We deliver a selected assortment of superior cannabis products to fulfill all your needs:
Prescription Marijuana: For those in need of therapeutic benefits, our prescription weed range is premium, supplying relief and rest with diligently chosen kinds.
Cali Marijuana: Brought right from Cali, our West Coast Weed offers the best of the Western US to Israel’s Capital, known for its powerful effects and top-notch standard.
Israeli Indoors-grown: Home-grown grown and carefully grown, our Israeli Indoor-cultivated weed is great for those who appreciate home-grown high-standard.
THC Concentrates: Our THC oils are optimal for those who favor a more subtle and measured experience, supplying a high-strength concentration in every portion.
Vape Pens THC: For those who travel, our THC vapes offer convenience and strength, making sure of a smooth and enjoyable encounter every time.
Weed Cake: Reward yourself to a stellar adventure with our Weed Cake, mixed with the ideal combination of Cannabis Extract for a exquisitely high-strength experience.
Gummy THC: Our THC gummies provide a flavorful and effortless way to enjoy herb, perfect for micro-dosing or a pleasant, flavorful bite.
CBD Products: For those seeking the relief of herb without the intoxication, our selection of CBD items delivers relaxing results with no intoxication.
How to Buy?
Ordering is straightforward and hassle-free through our service channel: @WEED2SMOKE. We provide:
5-Star Review: Our commitment to high standards and consumer fulfillment is demonstrated in our top-rated review.
Free Shipping: Enjoy our products brought immediately to your residence at no extra cost.
24/7 Service: We recognize that great mood don’t stick to a schedule, which is why we’re ready day and night to meet your demands.
Enjoy the best that The White City has to supply in cannabis items. Whether you’re in need of for medical ease, recreational entertainment, or merely want to relax, we’ve made sure of it. Purchase now and bring those uplifting atmosphere home!
KRAKEN – Ссылка,зеркало,сайт KRAKEN официальный сайт
mebeverine 135mg cost – buy colospa cheap order pletal 100 mg generic
buy celecoxib 200mg for sale – indomethacin for sale online indomethacin canada
celebrex for sale – celebrex 200mg us oral indocin
This is the most reliable source to buy sildenafil
How can I safely order sildenafil
celecoxib ca – purchase urispas order indocin pills
Can I order sildenafil without seeing a doctor
This is the best place to buy sildenafil online
order colospa 135 mg online – purchase etoricoxib generic pletal buy online
Modern technologies used in ireland-24.com shower systems help save water and energy. This not only reduces your costs, but also protects the environment.
bmoneyfinder.com
buy generic mebeverine online – cilostazol 100 mg over the counter buy cilostazol pills
доставка на дом алкоголя ангарск круглосуточно телефон
payusainvest.com
I strongly recommend this site for ordering sildenafil
What’s the most recommended way to order sildenafil
MEGA: Официальный Сайт, Рабочие Ссылки и
– Мориарти
MEGA: Официальный Сайт, Рабочие Ссылки и мега площадка – Мориарти
how to get colospa without a prescription – order etoricoxib 60mg pill generic cilostazol 100mg
MEGA: Официальный Сайт, Рабочие Ссылки и мега – Мориарти
Do you have any recommendations for ordering sildenafil safely
What website is best to order sildenafil from
how to buy celebrex – generic celebrex indocin us
смотреть порно фильмы онлайн бесплатно
buy colospa 135 mg – colospa 135mg usa generic cilostazol
секс порно видео бесплатно
Is it safe to order sildenafil online
Sildenafil buy
Лучшие онлайн казино России 2024
Лучшие онлайн казино России
buy celecoxib 200mg – purchase flavoxate without prescription order indomethacin 50mg pills
cost celecoxib – celecoxib 200mg pills buy indomethacin pills for sale