“The kingdom of God does not consist in talk but in power” (1 Cor. 4:20).
I have been thinking a lot lately about signs and wonders, and how they were a regular part of the life of the early church.
Should we expect the same types of things to happen as a regular occurrence in our churches today?
Some would say that the outpouring of the Holy Spirit in that way was for that time, and we should not expect such things to happen now. I think many take this view because clearly, we are not experiencing signs and wonders as those did in the first days of the formation of the Church. “Miracles” are more the exception than the rule in the modern-day church.
But Jesus taught His disciples that their faith could move mountains, and I believe this teaching was for all believers, not just the first followers. The apostle Paul in Romans 8:11 says that the same power that raised Christ from the dead is in all believers, so it would follow that signs and wonders would be a part of the life of those who follow Christ. Throughout times of revival and unique outpourings of the Holy Spirit, there have been accompanying signs and wonders, such as healings.
I believe God wants us to pray with expectation.
But how often do we “hedge our bets,” or give God an “out,” so to speak?
How often, instead of praying bold prayers for healing or other needs, do we pray in such a way that reveals we don’t really believe God will do whatever it is we are asking?
Jesus said if we have even the faith of the smallest of seeds, a mustard seed, we can move (metaphorical) mountains, and that NOTHING is impossible with God.
Do we have that kind of faith?
We are called to pray bold prayers, and not play it safe, or “pray” it safe.
It’s prayer that will bring revival.
It’s prayer that will change the current reality.
It’s prayer, offered in faith, that makes the sick person well (James 5:15).
May the Church operate in the power of the Holy Spirit, and through prayer offered in faith, may we see an outpouring of God’s love and faithfulness as never before.
Don’t pray it safe.
