“For,” said Peter, “it is written in the book of Psalms… ‘May another take his place of leadership.’ ” Acts 1:20
The second action God chose to record in the Bible for the newly forming church was that they remembered Scripture to direct their decisions (Acts 1:15-26). God’s Word was a light for their path (Psalm 119:105) as Peter reminded them of Scripture to guide them in the replacement of Judas. God’s Word is just as necessary to direct our steps today and important if we want to experience the resurrection power of Jesus.
Jesus is the Word that became flesh (John 1:14). So the Word was crucified, died and resurrected with Jesus. If He had remained dead in the tomb and had not been resurrected, the Word of God would have remained dead as well, since all of Scripture hinges on this truth. If Jesus had remained dead, then we would have no hope beyond this life and are to be pitied (1 Corinthians 15:19). And if His Word remained dead, we would have no hope for this life either. If our only hope is for eternity with no power in this earthly life, then we also are to be pitied.
Words that aren’t true are dead; they have no power for good. But God’s Word is truth (John 17:17). His Word is powerful; it spoke creation into existence (Genesis 1), it sustains all things (Hebrews 1:3), and it will bring an end to all evil (Revelation 19:11-21). Jesus even gave us His Holy Spirit to guide us into all truth (John 16:13). Every time we remember God’s Word, put it into practice, we proclaim the truth of the risen Word. Jesus rises into our lives and circumstances and we experience His resurrection power. In His bodily resurrection, He conquered death, but the resurrection of the Word also conquers life. Do you question where that conquering, resurrection power is in your life? How often do you allow God’s risen Word to light your path and power your actions?
Prayer: Dear Father in heaven, Your wisdom is perfect and your truth is powerful. We thank you for resurrecting Jesus and your Word, for the victory it brings both in life here on earth and for eternity. Lord, we ask that your Holy Spirit would help us to remember your Truth and apply it to our lives. Let it be a light for our path. We long to experience your resurrection power in our lives and churches and to live life in your powerful will. May we, like your early church, be guided and powered by your amazing Word. In the great name of our risen, conquering King, Jesus Christ. Hallelujah and Amen!
Great reminder of the Resurrection power available to God’s people.
Need it today and everyday!