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Nourishment and Empowerment: Empowered for Purpose

Photo by Aaron Burden on Unsplash

Scripture (Acts 1:1-2 NLT):

"In my first book I told you, Theophilus, about everything Jesus began to do and teach 2 until the day he was taken up to heaven after giving his chosen apostles further instructions through the Holy Spirit."

Observe:

In the opening verses of the Book of Acts, the author, Luke, addresses Theophilus and refers to his previous book, the Gospel of Luke. He begins by summarizing the events that occurred from the time of Jesus' earthly ministry until His ascension. A key point in these verses is the reference to Jesus giving His chosen apostles further instructions through the Holy Spirit after His resurrection and before His ascension.

Application:

Relying on the Holy Spirit for Guidance: This passage highlights the significant role of the Holy Spirit in the life of the early Church and in our lives today. Just as Jesus provided instructions to His apostles through the Holy Spirit, we can rely on the Holy Spirit for guidance and direction in our daily lives and our work, particularly in the nonprofit sector.

Empowerment for Service: The Holy Spirit provides guidance and empowers us for the work we are called to do. Just as the apostles received instructions through the Holy Spirit, they were also equipped with power on the Day of Pentecost, as described later in Acts.

Continuing the Work of Jesus: The Book of Acts chronicles the ongoing work of Jesus through His followers. As nonprofit enthusiasts dedicated to serving others, we have the privilege to continue the work of Christ by relying on the Holy Spirit.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, we are grateful for the promise of the Holy Spirit's guidance and empowerment as we carry out the work You have called us to do. We pray for a deeper reliance on the Holy Spirit in our lives and in our nonprofit efforts. May the Spirit guide us, empower us, and help us continue the work of Jesus in this world. In our daily endeavors, may we be led by the Holy Spirit to serve with love and purpose. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Acts 1:1-2 reminds us of the Holy Spirit's vital role in our lives and work. Just as the early apostles received guidance and empowerment through the Holy Spirit, we, too, can rely on the Spirit to guide us, empower us, and enable us to continue the work of Jesus in our nonprofit endeavors and in our daily lives.

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