Man always clings to earthly things, as if there were a solution to his woes in the world. In fact, he should ask God how to enter and live in the golden streets of the New Jerusalem, where the face of Christ is the sun that will always illuminate it (Revelation 21:21). Nothing is better than enjoying the divine presence. The devil can't even stand to look into the eyes of Jesus, which are like flames of fire (Revelation 1:14). In God, you will be completely fulfilled!

When Christ ordered His disciples to stay in Jerusalem, they understood that something good would happen there: And being assembled together with them, He commanded them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the Promise of the Father, “which,” He said, “you have heard from Me (Acts 1.4). What would be poured out upon them in the city of the great King (Matthew 5:35) would transform them in the spiritual realm. However, they thought only of things of this world, and not of the heavenly ones!

Jesus realized that they had not yet fully understood and then reinforced the guidance: for John truly baptized with water, but you shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.” (Acts 1.5). When we talk about divine power to someone, we must remember that human beings only think about the day-to-day, as if everything here were permanent. Therefore, we need to emphasize that everything refers to the Kingdom of Heaven!

Even though the Master had explained to them what would happen, each one's heart deemed itself strong enough to face the Roman Empire. However, the words of Jesus mentioned the Gospel to be preached to the world, accompanied by healings, miracles, and other signs, proving the presence of the Creator in the gatherings. Therefore, the people rejoiced and began to serve the Lord with confidence and assurance. He spoke clearly!

Many times, Christians think like the lost, as they only seek money, pleasure, and a false freedom. However, true freedom belongs only to those who serve Christ, performing the same works as Him. Following the instructions from Above makes us prudent: “Surely I have taught you statutes and judgments, just as the Lord my God commanded me, that you should act according to them in the land which you go to possess. (Deuteronomy 4.5).

Those who live according to God's statutes and judgments will prosper wherever they put their hands, according to the promise: Therefore be careful to observe them; for this is your wisdom and your understanding in the sight of the peoples who will hear all these statutes, and say, ‘Surely this great nation is a wise and understanding people.’ (Deuteronomy 4.6). Do not delay the effort to fulfill the will of the Lord; after all, He is ready to bless your life.

The Holy Spirit inspired the psalmist to write about the value of having and keeping the commandments: Blessed are those who keep His testimonies, who seek Him with the whole heart! They also do no iniquity; they walk in His ways. (Psalm 119.2,3). This is the recipe; just put it into practice, and He will fulfill the promise!

In Christ, with love,

R. R. Soares