Yesterday’s devotion was about the preview Joel gave the Israelites of the Holy Spirit being poured out on God’s people. But those same words preview the Holy Spirit’s presence at Pentecost well before it happened as recorded in the New Testament book of Acts. “I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, your young men will see visions” (Joel 2:28).
God chose the time after Jesus’ death and resurrection to begin the main mission work of the early church. The disciples were scared, perplexed, and unsure of what was to come. That’s when God sent the Holy Spirit on Pentecost (see Acts 2:1-13). The disciples spoke in many languages! They were now bold spokespeople for Jesus through the gift of the Holy Spirit.
Today that miracle continues through foreign and home mission work being done by God’s faithful servants. Men and women are given gifts and training to translate the gospel into many languages so all may hear it. This isn’t a preview of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is here now as you read this. The Holy Spirit has gifted you too. Just as the rock-solid truth of Jesus has passed down all the way to you. Who will you tell about your Savior? Where will the Holy Spirit’s blessing take those words next?
