Day 2: Empowered to Abide

Reading: Acts 2:1-4, 42-47

“When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them. They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.”

—Acts 2:1-4, 42-43, 45-47 NIV

Before the disciples could abide in Christ’s mission, they had to wait for the Holy Spirit.

Without the Spirit’s power, abiding is impossible. The word “abide” means to remain, to adhere, to refuse to be moved. The early church abided in teaching, fellowship, breaking bread, and prayer—and signs and wonders followed. Abiding isn’t passive; it’s actively remaining connected to the source of life. Like a branch connected to a vine, we can only bear fruit when we stay connected. The Holy Spirit makes this possible. He gives us the strength to remain when circumstances tempt us to drift. Today, invite the Holy Spirit to empower your commitment to abide in Christ’s presence and purposes. Reflection: Are you trying to abide in your own strength, or have you invited the Holy spirits empowerment?