Hooked Up
"Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them." -Acts 2:2-3 (NIV)
As athletes, we train to become faster and stronger. We try to bring as much power to our sport as we can. We may engage in a weight-training program. We may go out and run. We may attend a sports camp. But even more important than our physical training is our spiritual training.
Consider a plain, ordinary lightbulb. How much power does it put out? On its own, it puts out absolutely none. It has to be hooked to a power source in order to produce light.
This reminds me of the apostle Peter, a very interesting person. He was a common man (a fisherman by trade) but also a powerful man. And we certainly have to agree that Peter was dedicated to his calling.
Peter said he would never be drawn away from the Lord (see Matthew 26:33-35). But what happened after Jesus was arrested? Peter denied Jesus—not once but three times (see Matthew 26:74-75). However, later on, at Pentecost, Peter boldly proclaimed the gospel and was instrumental in bringing thousands to the Lord (see Acts 2:14-41).
What made the difference? The time spent waiting on the Lord and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. Isaiah 40:31 states:
Those who hope in the Lord
will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
they will run and not grow weary,
they will walk and not be faint (NIV).
Today, make sure you’re connected to the Power Source.
1. How did Peter stumble?
2. What happens when you wait on the Lord? How can you be hooked up to the Power Source?
3. What has God promised to do if you accept Christ and rely on Him as your source of power?
Isaiah 40:31; Matthew 26:31-75; Philippians 4:13,19
Lord, You are my power source. Please forgive me for the times that I have tried to replace You with some other source. You are my strength. I will wait upon You. Fill me with Your Spirit of power and might. Anoint me with boldness to proclaim Your message. Amen.
