Audio by Pr. Umuremye Jolay Paul, Revival and Reformation Department, Rwanda Union Mission

Now it is God who makes both us and you stand firm in Christ. He anointed us, set his seal of ownership on us, and put his Spirit in our hearts as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come. 2
Corinthians 1:21, 22.

In giving the Holy Spirit, it was impossible for God to give more. To this gift, nothing could be added. By it, all needs are supplied. The Holy Spirit is the vital presence of God, and if appreciated will call forth praise and thanksgiving, and will ever be springing up unto everlasting life. The restoration of the Spirit is the covenant of grace. Yet how few appreciate this great gift, so costly, yet so free to all
who will accept it? When faith takes hold of the blessing, there comes rich spiritual good. But too often the blessing is not appreciated. We need an enlarged conception in order to comprehend its value…

Oh, what amazing love and condescension! The Lord Jesus encourages His believing ones to ask for the Holy Spirit. By presenting the parental tenderness of God, He seeks to encourage faith in the reception of the gift. The heavenly Parent is more willing to give the Holy Spirit to them that ask Him than earthly parents are to give good gifts to their children. What greater thing could be promised?
What more is necessary to awaken a response in every soul, to inspire us with a longing for the great gift? Shall not our half-hearted supplications be turned into petitions of intense desire for this great blessing? We do not ask for enough of the good things God has promised. If we would reach higher and expect more, our petitions would

reveal the quickening influence that comes to every soul who asks with the full expectation of being heard and answered. The Lord is not glorified by the tame supplications which show that nothing is expected. He desires each one who believes to approach the throne of grace with earnestness and assurance. —The Signs of the Times, August 7, 1901.

Reflect:

1. What practical lessons do you get from this lesson?

2. Have you discovered the greatest gift that God is willing to give you?

3. How can you get this important gift in for your life?

Pray:

1. For the baptism of the Holy Spirit
2. For God to bring revival into your life and the church
3. For the desire within us to embrace the gift of the Holy Spirit
4. For the individuals on your prayer list
5. For the ECD Evangelistic Impact 2025