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

Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: and see if there be any
wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. Psalm 139:23, 24.

After Christ’s ascension, the disciples gathered together in one place to make humble supplications to God. And after ten days of heart-searching and self-examination, the way was prepared for the Holy Spirit to enter the cleansed, consecrated soul temples. Every heart was filled with the Spirit, as though God desired to show His people that it was His prerogative to bless them with the choicest of
heaven’s blessings.

What was the result? Thousands were converted in a day. The sword of the Spirit flashed right and left. Newly edged with power, it pierced even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow. The idolatry that had been mingled with the worship of the people was overthrown. New territory was added to the kingdom of God. Places that had been barren and desolate
sounded forth His praises. Believers, reconverted, born again, were a living power for God. A new song was put in their mouths, even praise to the Highest.

Controlled by the Spirit, they saw Christ in their brethren. One interest prevailed. One subject of emulation swallowed up all others—to be like Christ, to do the works of Christ. The earnest zeal felt was expressed by loving helpfulness, by kindly words, and unselfish deeds. All strove to see who could do the most for the enlargement of Christ’s kingdom. “The multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul” (Acts 4:32).

In the twelve disciples, the leaven of truth was hidden by the Great Teacher. These disciples were to be the instruments in God’s hands for revealing the truth to the world. Divine power was given them; for a risen Saviour breathed on them, saying, “Receive ye the Holy Ghost.” Imbued with this Spirit, they went forth to witness the truth. And so God desires His servants to go forth today with the
message He has given them. But till they receive the Holy Spirit, they cannot bear this message with power. Till they receive the Spirit, they cannot realize what God can do through them. (RH, June 10, 1902)

Reflect:

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

2. Do you hear the voice of the Holy Spirit as you listen to him talking to you?

3. What steps do you think are important to be taken in order to make today’s lesson profitable to you?

Pray:

1. For the baptism of the Holy Spirit
2. For God to bring revival into your life and the church
3. For God to search our hearts and convict us for our sins, leading us to repentance
4. For the individuals on your prayer list
5. For the ECD Evangelistic Impact 2025