The electrical cord snakes across the hardwood floor, coiled and still with one end plugged into my laptop. The fanged prongs on the opposite end of the cord remain inoperative on the floor. The amazing capabilities of my laptop are dormant, unable to function or perform the tasks it was created to perform as long as it is unplugged from its power source.
Such is the life of the Christian who remains unplugged from his or her Power Sources. We are unproductive, joyless, hopeless, strife-filled Christians when we attempt to walk the Christian walk detached from the Power Source. Just as my laptop was packaged with an instruction manual for its successful performance, God has given us His Word – the Holy Bible – as our instruction manual for a successful life. How many individuals never open a Bible and read the Word of God? How many Christians fall short and rarely open their Bibles? Can you imagine operating any piece of equipment without reading the instruction manual? Is not the thought of missing out on the opportunity of eternal life or being able to stand firm in the midst of trials and tribulations a frightening proposition? Everyday that I read my Bible, my eyes are enlightened, I am challenged to change, and my heart is encouraged. Specific instruction is given to the reader on the one path to eternal life. These instructions are too critical not to learn.
Once opened, His Word brings light and life to our spirits. And we will quickly learn through His Word that we must plug in our power cord of prayer to tap into the reserves of power the Holy Spirit is waiting to distribute to each believer. We may attempt running our lives on auxiliary power for awhile – doing things our way without the counsel and guidance of the Holy Spirit through prayer – however, our lives will not run well without the power cord of prayer connecting our lives with the energy and leading of the Holy Spirit.
After reading the instruction manual for my new laptop and plugging its cord into the electrical outlet, this remarkable piece of equipment buzzes to life. In an instant, I am communicating with people around the globe. I am researching medical topics in far away medical libraries. Greetings from family and friends are delivered to my mailbox. Music dances from the speakers. A black piece of hard plastic and electronic gadgetry becomes a magnificent, operational machine.
Much is the same for each human being who is willing to connect with the One True God of the Universe. As our eyes fall on the written Word of God, we are changed and empowered. His Word teaches us to seek Him and His gifts of forgiveness and salvation. The words are saturated with God’s grace and mercy and compassion for each of us – no matter how we have behaved or believed in the past. And as we read the Bible, we are told to pray and to believe. We are taught that the Holy Spirit indwells within us while we are on earth – God’s deposit of Himself into each believer’s soul – He truly never does leave us nor forsakes us.
Power up today! Open your Bible and commit to reading even a few verses a day. Seek God’s gift of salvation, if you have not. Receive and welcome the Holy Spirit into your life. Pray without ceasing – no eloquent, flowery words are required – speak as a child would speak to its father. God already knows all about you and your needs but He loves to communicate with His children. In no time, you will see a life of turmoil and distraught evolve into one of love, joy, peace, and patience. And with attributes such as these gifts of the Holy Spirit, you will experience a life empowered beyond your wildest imagination! Get plugged in.
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