"I indeed...but Him!"

“I indeed baptize you with water…but He…

shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and fire.”

Matthew 3:11

Have I ever come to a place in my experience where I can say - "I indeed...but He?"

I indeed am at an end, I cannot do anything; I have given my very best until I can give no more.

This is when He can begin and do the things no one else can ever do!

INSPIRATION

Baptize with water…anyone can do this!

     Demonstration of confession and repentance.

     Sense of uncleanliness and guilt.

     End of self-centeredness!

     I must decrease…

TRANSFORMATION

Baptize with Holy Ghost and fire…ONLY JESUS can do this!

     Evidence of His Presence and possession.

     Sense of unworthiness and Awe.

     New Life that is Christ-centered!

     HE must increase…

WHAT ABOUT THE FIRE?

The outpouring of the Holy Spirit activity brought persecution and suffering also-that’s the FIRE!  Example:  Paul & Stephen; and all Apostles were martyred.  We don’t see this as real…

JESUS said, they hate Me, they will hate you! 

Thank You, Lord, for giving clearer understanding and experience of Your Spirit – being baptized with Your Spirit and fire.  Study has shown that fire is trials and suffering.  The Holy Spirit equips those who witness for You to bear the sufferings that will follow. 

Help me, Lord to give You glory whatever my circumstances.

(Read John 15:18-27 and all of chapter 16 for more understanding of the Holy Spirit and results of His activity in our lives.)  Also:  Matthew 10:22; John 15:33; John 17:14