GWEA Monthly Message            

The Struggle Within and Victory Beyond      

    

           

Paul’s experience is a common experience for believers. We know God's standards are good, just, and holy, but our sinful nature often hinders our obedience. Paul emphasizes that the law is good (Rom. 7:12), but it exposes our sin (Rom. 3:20). It reveals our need for our Saviour, Jesus Christ. In chapter 8 we find victory through the Holy Spirit. Paul explains that those who are in Christ Jesus are no longer under condemnation (Rom. 8:1). 

The Holy Spirit, given to believers, empowers us to live a life pleasing to God (Rom. 8:4). This doesn't mean we won't struggle with sin, but it does mean we have the ability to overcome it. The Spirit helps us to put to death the sinful desires of our flesh (Rom. 8:13) and to live according to the Spirit (Rom. 8:4). People who are led by the Spirit are children of God (Rom. 8:14), heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ (Rom. 8:17). 

Romans chapters 7 and 8 provide a blueprint for the Christian life. We face an internal struggle (Rom. 7), but victory is found in Christ (Rom. 8). To apply this truth, we must first acknowledge our sin and rely on the Holy Spirit to empower us. Romans 8:4 gives a vivid picture of the Holy Spirit’s role in our lives. Here, Paul explains that those who live according to the Spirit are able to fulfill the righteous requirements of the law. The Spirit doesn't just point out our shortcomings; He equips us with the power to overcome them!

In verse 4, Paul explains that those who live according to the Spirit are able to fulfill the righteous requirements of the law. The Spirit empowers us to overcome the desires of the flesh and walk in obedience to God (Rom. 8:6-8). This doesn't mean we will never stumble, but we have the assurance that the Holy Spirit helps us get back up, and keeps us moving forward in faith (Rom. 8:1). As we surrender to the Spirit's guidance, and pray in our Holy Spirit given tongues languages, we allow His power to transform us.

As Paul states in Romans 8:13, "For if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live." Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we can choose to put to death the sinful desires of our flesh and live according to the Spirit. This empowers us to overcome temptation and experience the freedom and victory that Christ offers.

In Romans chapter 12, Paul sums it up when he said, ‘Therefore, I urge you… to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God… Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” 

When we follow the Holy Spirit's leading and put our sinful, fleshly desires to death, we become a living sacrifice for Jesus. Our natural minds become renewed and sin no longer dominates our lives; we view life through the spiritual eyes of our hearts and not from our physical eyes. Then we can test and approve God's good, pleasant, and perfect will which is revealed to us.   

If you would like to have prayer to receive the Baptism of the Holy Spirit, the Gifts of the Holy Spirit, healing, encouragement, or any need you may have, we invite you come to one of our house church meetings, online or in-person, or contact us through our GWEA contact page.   

SOME PRAISE REPORTS FROM OUR HOUSE CHURCHES (HEB. 13:15-16; PS. 100:4)

A member shared a heartwarming testimony how a family member known for being self-centered came to visit her. However, to her surprise, the visit was wonderful! He displayed unexpected compassion and seemed much less focused on himself. This positive change reminds us of Proverbs 11:25: "A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed." She is very grateful for God's work in her family member's life.

The relentless rain in past weeks has brought flooding and challenges. One member's home remained untouched and they expressed their gratefulness with joyful laughter: "Looks like we can hold off on the Ark for now!" Lol! This challenging weather reflects Elijah's time, when his prayers for rain during a drought were answered (1 Kings 18:41-45). Even amidst the storm, God's protection is a constant source of praise.

One member expressed how much our weekly Zoom meetings have encouraged and uplifted her. Feeling connected and supported by our meetings has been a true blessing to her. Many others also expressed similar feelings. Her praise is a reminder of Hebrews 10:25: "Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another..." We truly are blessed to have this weekly opportunity for Holy Spirit fellowship and spiritual growth together from the comfort of our homes. 

A lighthearted report came from a House Church leader. They were studying 1 Peter 3:16 and Acts 4:19, discussing the importance of sharing their faith. The leader jokingly remarked, "Even Peter had to deal with repetition! Here he is, again preaching the Gospel (Acts 4:19) after the events of 1 Peter 3:16!" The group laughed, but the point came across clearly. These verses remind us that the Gospel message, though it seems repetitive, is always Good News for every day (2 Cor. 6:2). Just as the early church continued to preach despite persecution, so should we share the Gospel with unwavering faith!

A member facing a serious illness shared how a tongues message, interpreted as "You will come through this… you are going through a trial of great extremes, but you will make it. Hold onto me… I am here with you…," brought immense comfort and strength. The member's faith was greatly encouraged, and after several weeks, his health showed significant improvement! 1 Corinthians 12:7-11, reminds us that the Holy Spirit distributes gifts, like tongues and interpretation, to encourage and build up the body of Christ. The Holy Spirit is a person and is God. His comfort and power are always readily available to restore us.         

         

           

         

           

         

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The Baptism of the Holy Spirit isn't just about feeling good. It's about empowerment! 1 Corinthians 14:2 tells us that speaking in tongues "edifies the speaker." Tongues isn't gibberish like some think, but a heavenly language that strengthens our prayer lives and connection with God. It's also a powerful tool for evangelism, as seen in Acts 2, where the Holy Spirit enabled the disciples to share the gospel in prayer languages they hadn't learned!

So how can you experience this transformative power? If you haven’t received the Baptism of the Holy Spirit with the evidence of speaking in tongues, ask the Holy Spirit to fill you, just as Paul did for the disciples, and/or contact us so we can pray with you. If you have received, ask the Holy Spirit “to stir up the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of … hands. 

For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind (2 Tim. 1:6-7), and/or contact us so we can pray with you. Believe that the Holy Spirit desires to empower you with other Gifts of the Spirit, including speaking in tongues. As you yield to Him in prayer, open yourself to the fire of the Holy Spirit, igniting your faith and fueling your witness for Christ!  

Praise Reports: Let Your Light Shine Before Others (Matt. 5:16) 

The most effective praise reports are those that clearly demonstrate God's faithfulness. They highlight specific instances where God intervened in a miraculous or unexpected way. By sharing personal struggles and triumphs, people are inspired and encouraged. Praise reports focus on God's power and goodness and show how God's intervention has changed people’s lives and perspective. 

Examples of good praise reports are not just about overcoming significant challenges like illness, financial hardship, or relationship problems. They can be about everyday life and circumstances. God wants to meet all our needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus (Phil. 4:19). When people witness answered prayers and miracles, it builds up their faith. They enter into a closer relationship with Jesus. The result is changed hearts and transformed lives. Praise reports glorify God and encourage others. 

By sharing testimonies, we offer a powerful witness to God's unfailing love, mercy and grace. If you have a praise report or testimony that you would like to share, please email to: praisereports@gordwilliams.com