“Do not stifle the Holy Spirit.” (1 Thessalonians 5:19, NLT)
When we stifle the Holy Spirit, we are denying ourselves the very power we need to face all of the challenges of our days.
The Holy Spirit is wisdom, understanding, counsel, power, and knowledge. (Isaiah 11:2)
The Holy Spirit is living and active.
When the Spirit urges you to move, do not stifle its impulses — MOVE! – Luther
“In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus:”. (Philippians 2:5, NIV)
The thought in today’s verse doesn’t end with the colon (“:”). In the three verses after the colon, Paul goes on to specify the attitudes that reflect the mind of Christ, which are:
(Verse 6): Regarding gifts as opportunities. Some gifts you have, and some gifts you are! Each are given to us for service, not for status!
(Verse 7): Servitude. While “service” is an act in support of others, “servitude” is an attitude. Are we willing to serve only when the situation suits us; or are we committed to serve regardless of the circumstance?
(Verse 8): Humble obedience. A star athlete falls short of his or her potential when the coach is not obeyed. Likewise, we must do, go, and be as the Holy Spirit directs; not for our own glory, but for the glory of God.
Are you cultivating “the same mindset as Christ Jesus” in your relationships with others? – Luther
“As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.” (Ephesians 4:1-2, NIV)
Live up to your calling.
This is the message from Paul — writing from prison in Rome — to the Christians in Ephesus (a city in modern-day Turkey).
Our calling is the highest of all callings, yet we are instructed to be humble. This calling often leads us into the coarsest of situations, yet we are expected to be gentle at all times. Our calling gives us access to the wisdom of the ages, and the knowledge of the Almighty; yet we are also called to exhibit patience, forbearance, and love.
Are you living up to your calling as a disciple of Jesus? – Luther
Daily Encouragement 