2nd July 2026

Connected to Power

"Do not quench the Spirit.

1 Thessalonians 5:19

Today's Bible Reading: 1 Thessalonians 1:4–5; 5:19.

Despite knowing that the electricity wasn’t working in our house after a strong storm, I instinctively put on the light switch when I entered the room. Of course, nothing happened. I remained in darkness.

That experience—expecting light even when I knew the connection to the power source was broken, reminded me of a spiritual truth. Too often we expect power even as we fail to rely on the Holy Spirit.

In 1 Thessalonians, Paul wrote of the way God caused the Gospel message to come “not simply with words but also with power, and in the Holy Spirit and in much assurance” (1:5). And when we accept God’s forgiveness, believers too have immediate access to the power of His Spirit in our lives. That power cultivates in us characteristics such as love, joy, peace and patience (Galatians 5:22–23) and it empowers us with gifts to serve the church, including teaching, helping and guiding (1 Corinthians 12:28).

Paul warned his readers that it is possible to “quench the spirit” (1 Thessalonians 5:19). We might restrict the power of the Spirit by ignoring God’s presence or rejecting His conviction (John 16:8). But we do not have to live disconnected from Him. God’s power is always available to His children.

Prayer: Almighty God, help me experience the power of Your Spirit in my life. In Jesus name. Amen.