“Then Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit to Galilee, and news of Him went out through all the surrounding region. And He taught in their synagogues, being glorified by all.” Luke 4:14-15 NKJV
For Software developers, the fewer bugs a software has, the better its performance and reliability. They often set aside some time to debug their code or software, to ensure it functions optimally. Similarly, the believer is encouraged through scriptures to create special times of devotion to the word, fasting, and prayer.
Today’s anchor text shows us the outcome of one of Jesus’ seasons of prayer and fasting. After spending 40 days in the wilderness (Luke 4:2), He returned to Galilee in the power of the Spirit. There was a remarkable difference in His ministry and the way His ministry was received by the people. He experienced supernatural empowerment and announcement. You can also expect a similar shift in your life and ministry when you give yourself to seasons of devotion.
To prepare for an extremely trying time of suffering and eventual death, Jesus went to Gethsemane to pray. Matthew 26:38 records that He was so grieved, He felt like He would die from the weight of the sorrow in His heart. But after He prayed, things changed. His heart yielded to the will of the Father, His feelings were subdued ( Matthew 26:42), and He also received divine strength to go ahead with His mission (Luke 22:43). This can be your experience too.
There may be things that God has called you to do but you have been stalling. The heart alignment and strength you need will come in the place of prayer.
Isaiah 40:30 describes the human condition. Youth, which is a symbol of strength, diminishes. But the game changer is in verse 31; waiting on God guarantees perpetual strength and divine progress. It is possible to live a life of strength by the Spirit, where you are not defined by your humanity. The greatest thing that happens when you give yourself to seasons of devotion is that you are changed and aligned to God’s purpose.
Believers who take out time to separate themselves in devotion never come back the same way. Graces are activated, gifts are received, and the power of God flows unhindered through them. But that’s not all. Whenever you feel down or empty again, you can take out some time again in devotion to recharge.
Say this: There are no down times in my life. My devotional life is unwavering, and I keep the fire burning always.
Bible Reading Plan: Hosea 1–4; John 12:1–19