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New Creation - Wini
Wini's sermon encourages us to hunger and thirst for the Holy Spirit, to be empowered as witnesses for Jesus, and to live in the light by daily surrendering, confessing, and obeying God's Spirit.
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We gathered with a sense of expectation, reminded that our experience of God’s presence is deeply connected to the hunger and thirst we bring. When we approach God with open hearts, He promises to fill us, not with empty gestures, but with the real and generous gift of the Holy Spirit. This gift is not reserved for a select few, but is poured out on all who believe and ask. Just as the early disciples waited in Jerusalem and were filled with the Spirit at Pentecost, so too are we invited to wait, to ask, and to receive.
The Holy Spirit’s primary purpose is to empower us to be witnesses—to tell the story of Jesus everywhere, not just in words, but in the way we live, love, and serve. The transformation seen in Peter, who went from denying Jesus to boldly proclaiming Him to thousands, is the same transformation available to each of us. The Spirit gives us courage, boldness, and the ability to shine the light of Christ in our everyday lives, whether in moments of strength or in seasons of suffering.
We are reminded that the Spirit’s work is not just about outward witness, but also about inward transformation. The Spirit convicts us of sin, calls us to repentance, and shapes us to become more like Jesus—growing in love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. This is not a one-time event, but a continual process of surrender, confession, and renewal. We are encouraged to bring our struggles into the light, to seek accountability, and to allow the Spirit to do His refining work in us.
Our witness is most powerful when it is authentic—when people see the difference Jesus makes in our lives, especially in times of trial. The story of the nuns in the internment camp, shining with joy and peace amidst suffering, challenges us to consider how we reflect Christ in our own hardships. The invitation is clear: to daily ask for the filling of the Holy Spirit, to surrender every part of our lives, and to step out in obedience—whether that means confessing sin, reaching out to someone in need, or simply inviting a friend to church.
God’s promise is sure: as we hunger and thirst, as we ask and receive, we will be filled, empowered, and transformed to be the light of the world, carrying the hope of Jesus to those around us.
Key Takeaways
1. Hunger and Thirst for God Open the Door to His Presence
Our experience of God is not determined by the quality of a service or the novelty of a message, but by the posture of our hearts. When we come hungry and thirsty for righteousness, God promises to fill us. If we find ourselves spiritually dry, we can simply ask God to renew our hunger and thirst, trusting that He is eager to meet us.
2. The Holy Spirit Empowers Us to Be Witnesses, Not Just Comforted Believers
The Spirit is given not only to comfort, guide, or help us, but to empower us to be bold witnesses of Jesus. This power is not for personal gain or status, but for sharing the good news everywhere—at home, in our communities, and beyond. The transformation of Peter and countless others shows that the Spirit can turn even the timid into courageous proclaimers of Christ.
3. Transformation Happens Through Ongoing Surrender and Repentance
The Spirit’s work is ongoing; being filled is not a one-time event but a daily process. As the Spirit convicts us of sin, we are called to confess and repent—not to earn God’s love, but because we are already loved. Regular repentance and accountability bring our struggles into the light, allowing the Spirit to transform us more and more into the likeness of Jesus.
4. Our Light Shines Brightest in Darkness and Suffering
The world watches how we respond to hardship. Like the nuns in the internment camp or the woman who witnessed from her hospital bed, our faith and joy in suffering can be a powerful testimony. The Spirit enables us to shine with hope, peace, and love even when circumstances are bleak, drawing others to the source of our light.
5. Obedience to the Spirit’s Promptings Multiplies the Kingdom
The Spirit often prompts us in simple, quiet ways—an idea, a nudge, a sense to reach out or invite someone. Our responsibility is to obey, leaving the results to God. Every act of obedience, no matter how small, can have a ripple effect, leading others to encounter Jesus and become lights themselves.
Daily Hope Devotionals
Day 1: Longing for God Awakens His Presence
Scripture:
Matthew 5:6
“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.” (Matthew 5:6 NIV)
Devotional:
Our spiritual experience with God begins not with external circumstances but with the posture of our hearts. When you come before God with genuine hunger and thirst for righteousness, you open the door for His presence to fill you. This hunger is not about craving religious experiences but a deep desire for God’s truth and life to saturate your soul. If you find yourself spiritually dry or distant, remember that God invites you to ask Him to renew this hunger and thirst. He is eager to meet you where you are and fill you with His life-giving Spirit. This openness is the foundation for encountering God’s power and presence in your daily walk.
Reflection:
What specific spiritual hunger or thirst do you sense in your heart today?
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I come to You longing and yearning for more of You. I confess that at times my heart is distracted, and my hunger for Your righteousness wanes. Holy Spirit, ignite in me a deep desire to seek You earnestly, to hunger and thirst after Your truth and justice. Fill me with Your presence so that I would be truly satisfied. Help me lean in and open my heart to receive all that You have for me. Amen
Day 2: Empowered to Proclaim Beyond Comfort
Scripture:
Acts 1:8
“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” (Acts 1:8 NIV)
Devotional:
The Holy Spirit is given not merely to comfort or guide but to empower believers to be bold witnesses of Jesus Christ. This empowerment is not for personal gain or status but for the purpose of sharing the good news in every sphere of life—at home, work, and in community. The transformation of Peter, who moved from fear to fearless proclamation, illustrates that the Spirit can turn even the most timid into courageous witnesses. You are invited to receive this power so that your life becomes a living testimony, shining the light of Christ through your words and actions. This calling to witness is a vital part of the Spirit’s work in you.
Reflection:
In what area of your life do you feel hesitant to share your faith, and how can you invite the Holy Spirit to empower you to take one courageous step today?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, I ask today that Your Spirit would come afresh into my life. Fill me with Your power to witness boldly, to live as light in this dark world, and to reflect Your love. Holy Spirit, empower me to live in the light, to confess my sin, and to be transformed into the likeness of Christ. I surrender every part of myself to You, trusting in Your promise to fill me. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Day 3: Daily Surrender Shapes Christlikeness
Scripture:
Psalm 51:10
“Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.” (Psalm 51:10 NIV)
Transformation through the Spirit is not a one-time event but a continual journey of surrender and repentance. The Spirit convicts us of sin and calls us to bring our struggles into the light, not to earn God’s love but because we are already deeply loved. This ongoing process involves confession, accountability, and a willingness to be refined. As you daily surrender your heart and confess your shortcomings, the Spirit shapes you into the likeness of Jesus, growing in love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. This is the path of spiritual formation that leads to authentic maturity.
Reflection:
What is one area of sin or struggle you have been avoiding bringing into the light, and how can you take a step toward confession and accountability today?
Prayer:
Gracious God, sometimes I act thoughtlessly and stray from Your ways. Holy Spirit, convict me of my sins and lead me into repentance. Help me to confess my faults openly and turn away from darkness, choosing instead to walk in Your light. Give me the strength to obey Your promptings and to live a life that honours You. Thank You for Your love that never fails and for the continual process of transformation. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Day 4: Radiating Hope in the Midst of Trials
Scripture:
James 1:2-3
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. (James 1:2-3 NIV)
Devotional:
Our faith shines brightest not in times of ease but in seasons of suffering and hardship. The world watches how we respond to difficulties, and our joy and peace amid trials can become a powerful testimony to others. Stories like the nuns in the internment camp, who radiated peace despite their circumstances, challenge us to reflect Christ’s light in our own hardships. The Spirit enables us to carry hope, love, and peace even when life feels bleak, drawing others toward the source of our strength. Our witness in suffering is a beacon that points others to Jesus.
Reflection:
How can you intentionally invite the Holy Spirit to help you reflect Christ’s peace and hope in a current difficulty you are facing?
Prayer:
Father in heaven, I recognise that being filled with Your Spirit is an ongoing journey. I ask for a fresh infilling of Your Holy Spirit today. Help me to surrender fully and to lean into Your presence daily. Teach me to abide in Jesus through Scripture and prayer, and to listen to Your voice. Fill me anew so that I can live as light in the world, shining brightly for Your glory. I trust in Your promise to give good gifts to those who ask. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Day 5: Obedience Multiplies God’s Kingdom
Scripture:
Isaiah 1:19
If you are willing and obedient, you will eat the good things of the land; (Isaiah 1:19 NIV)
Devotional:
The Spirit often prompts us in quiet, simple ways—a nudge to reach out, an idea to encourage, or a sense to invite someone into community. Our responsibility is to obey these promptings, trusting God with the results. Every small act of obedience can create a ripple effect, leading others to encounter Jesus and become lights themselves. This daily responsiveness to the Spirit’s guidance multiplies the kingdom of God in ways we may never fully see but can faithfully participate in. Obedience is the fertile soil where God’s work grows.
Reflection:
What is one small prompting from the Holy Spirit you have been hesitant to follow, and what practical step can you take today to obey that nudge?
Prayer
Lord, thank You for calling me to be Your witness everywhere I go. I ask for courage and boldness to share Your love with those around me. Holy Spirit, prompt me to reach out, invite, and serve others. Help me to shine Your light through my actions, words, and love. May my life be a testimony that draws others to You. Empower me to be faithful in witnessing, knowing that You are with me always, even to the end of the age. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Day 6: Living Wisely in the Light of the Holy Spirit
Scripture:
Ephesians 5:15-18
Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is. Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit,” (Ephesians 5:15-18 NIV)
Devotional:
The Apostle Paul reminds us, "Be careful how you live." Sometimes, we go through our days on autopilot, acting thoughtlessly or reacting out of habit. But Paul urges us to live intentionally. It’s about living with awareness—being mindful of our words, actions, and choices. Just as alcohol can control us if we’re not careful, so can other things—worry, anger, distraction. But the Holy Spirit is the one who truly fills us, empowering us to live in the light. It’s an ongoing process.
Reflection:
Are your daily choices reflecting wisdom or foolishness? Is there anything that has unhealthy control over you?
Prayer:
Holy Spirit, thank You for filling me and empowering me to live wisely and boldly. I ask You now to fill me afresh. Help me live in Your light and cast off any influences that are not pleasing to You. Give me courage to obey Your prompts and love others as You love me. Amen.
Day 7: Shine Bright in Darkness
Scripture:
Matthew 5:14-18
“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” ( Matthew 5:14-18 NIV)
Devotional:
As followers of Jesus, we are called to be the light in a dark world. Our good deeds, our love, and our hope should shine brightly so others can see Jesus through us. Even when life is difficult, and circumstances seem dark, the Holy Spirit within us enables us to shine. Remember, our light points others to God’s glory, not ours.
Reflection:
What could you intentionally do today to show kindness or encouragement for someone, trusting that God will use it to draw others closer to Him?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for making me a light in this world. Help me to shine brightly, especially in times of darkness. Fill me with Your love and joy so that others may see You in me. Use my life to bring glory to Your name. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
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