Power

In the three weeks that Paul was among the Thessalonians
God moved in a mighty way:

"For our gospel did not come to you in word only, but
also in power, in the Holy Spirit, and with much
assurance." 1:5

Paul, by now, knew that his time with them would be
short--he rarely stayed in one place longer than four
months. He redeemed the time by holding meetings
morning, afternoon and evenings. All three men were
needed for such an intense schedule! A few Jews
responded to his message but the illiterate poor were
hungry--for God. They heard, they believed, they
experienced God's changing power within, and then
they shared it with others. The presence of God was
palpable and the numbers increased. Unknown to this
excited bunch of Christians, God had set them apart
for many afflictions and knowing God's power would
be key to their endurance.

Reader, have you ever walked into a room where the
presence of God filled the place? I am not talking about
man's efforts to rev up the sheep, but an atmosphere of
purity, joy, anticipation. During the Welsh revival a
drunk was heading home late one night and noticed a
light on in the church so he opened the door. He was
instantly overwhelmed and whispered, "God is here."
When God begins to move lives change, bars are
closed for lack of customers and the jail sits idle. Now
that is the power and the presence of the Holy Spirit!

Oh Lord, open the heavens and send us rain.