INTRODUCTION
In the last study, we looked at how we can witness to others and particularly some openers to witnessing. We need to constantly remind ourselves that this is the most important responsibility that our LORD and Master gave us (Mark 16:15) before ascending to glory. The early church and disciples were faithful to this calling, we in this generation must be revived and empowered to be faithful as well. The grace we pray God would give unto us in Jesus’ name. (Amen).
Today’s study considers one of the important things that can help in carrying out this task and that is, prayer.
CENTRAL BIBLE TEXT: EPHESIANS 3:14-21
A. IMPLICATIONS OF EPHESIANS 3:20
1. GOD is able to do far more than we ask or think. Jer. 33:3; John 14:14; John 16:24
2. The power that works in us is none other than the Holy Spirit. Acts 1:8; 10:38; 2:1-4: 11:15-17
3. The Holy Spirit is really a great helper in prayer. He strengthens us, shows us how to pray, intercedes for us and makes us to pray according to the will of God. Rom. 8:26-27; Lk. 24:49; Jude 20.
4. As a consequence of item 3, all things begin to work together for our good. Rom. 8:28; Zech. 10:1
5. Our enemy, the devil is aware of the blessings of prayer and thereby do everything to attack our prayer life and our relationship with the Holy Spirit more than anything else. We are daily involved in spiritual warfare. 2 Cor. 10:3-6; Eph. 6:12; Ex. 15:1-6; Ex. 14:13-14; Zech. 4:6-7; 1 Cor. 2:4-7
THE PLACE OF THE POWER THAT WORKETH IN US IN PRAYER (PART 2)
INTRODUCTION
We were introduced to the implications of Ephesians 3:20 in the last study.
This leads us to look closely on how to recognise and relate with the Holy Spirit better. As we know the Holy Spirit better, we would be able to employ Him in an efficient and effective way in the place of prayer leading to uncommon breakthroughs in our prayers and life. May God bless us richly as we study today in Jesus’ name (Amen).
CENTRAL BIBLE TEXT: JOHN 16:1-15
MOVING CLOSER TO THE HOLY SPIRIT
One man of God has said, the most important discovery of his life is the habitual companionship of the Holy Spirit; the One who stayed; the One who abides; the One who comes in and dwell in you forever. Jn. 14:26-27; 15-16, 21.
Some important things to know about the Holy Spirit includes the following:
1. He is a person, not a fire or water. Jn. 14:16-18
2. He created you. Jos. 33:4; 2 Cor. 3:6
3. The Holy Spirit authored the Word of God. 2 Pet. 1:21; 2 Tim. 3:16-19
4. He selects the gifts you were given. 1 Cor. 12:4-11
5. He determines to whom you are assigned for a moment or your lifetime. Acts 8:29
6. The Holy Spirit births uncommon love for those to whom you are sent. Rom. 5:5; 1 Jn. 4:8
7. The Holy Spirit is pleasured by Singing and Worship. Zeph. 3:17; Jn. 4:23-24; 2 Chron. 5:13-14
8. He intercedes for you every moment. Rom. 8:26
9. He is easily offended. Eph. 4:29-32; 1 Pet. 1:14-16
10. When Offended , the Holy Spirit withdraws His manifest presence. Hos. 5:15.
- Depression is the proof of His withdrawal.
- Joy is the proof of His presence (Ps. 16:11).
Recognition of the Holy Spirit is the master secret of life.
The most important thing in your life is the recognition of the voice of the Holy Spirit. This enables you to know your assignment, discern pitfalls and unleash your faith for the next season of achievement in your life. Acts 8:28-29; 18-24; 1 Cor. 2:9-11
Are you ready to depend upon Him? Are you ready to pay the price? Are you ready to abandon self and yield fully to His instructions and obey Him completely? Are you ready to be fully committed to Him and to be consecrated to Him?
Gal. 2:20; Phil. 3:8-10; 2 Cor. 10:6; Phil. 2:7-8; Is. 6:5; Ps. 63:1; Ps. 42:1-2, 7