Scripture
Acts 11:17-18 “If then God gave the same gift to them as he gave to us when we believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I that I could stand in God’s way?”When they heard these things they fell silent. And they glorified God, saying, “Then to the Gentiles also God has granted repentance that leads to life.”
Observation
Peter is giving an account to the church in Jerusalem about sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ with Cornelius, his family and friends while the Spirit came upon them. No matter what nation or tribe, when we believe in the Lord Jesus, God gives us the power of the Holy Spirit. The gift of the Holy Spirit is not something to be determined by one group to withhold from another. The apostles gave the glory to God, realizing that all who believe in Jesus and repent of their sin will be given eternal life.
Application
I must remember that I am just a vessel to be used by God to share the love of God and the gospel of Jesus Christ. It is the power of the Holy Spirit that will lead and convict someone to believe in Jesus Christ as Lord and savior. This should give me courage and boldness to share with others. The glory belongs to God every time that a soul is saved and taken from an eternity separated from God to a life with Him forever. The gospel is for everyone and no one is ever too far gone. Jesus tells us in the first words of his earthly ministry to, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.
Prayer
Father, Thank you for the gift of the Holy Spirit. Let the power of the Spirit guide and empower me to be an ambassador for you. May everything I do in you name to make you known bring honor and glory to you.