Brighter Life Ministry

Acts  8:17 Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost.  8:18 And when Simon saw that through laying on of the apostles' hands the Holy Ghost was given, he offered them money,  8:19 Saying, Give me also this power, that on whomsoever I lay hands, he may receive the Holy Ghost. In Acts 8, we see Simon, who was once a sorcerer and used to impressing people with his powers, offering money to receive the ability to impart the Holy Spirit. He saw the apostles laying their hands on believers and the power of God transforming lives, and he thought, “I want that!” But instead of seeing it as a gift to receive humbly, he saw it as something he could buy, as if he was shopping for magic. The first truth that stands out about this story is that, God's  gifts are not for sale. Salvation, the Holy Spirit, grace, love, forgiveness—these are all gifts from God that are given freely to those who believe. In fact, they are priceless, beyond any earthly curren...

Isaiah  41:10 Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.  41:11 Behold, all they that were incensed against thee shall be ashamed and confounded: they shall be as nothing; and they that strive with thee shall perish. The reality of living in this world filled with differing views, ambitions, and values means we sometimes face opposition. This opposition may come in the like of those who are “incensed against us.” these may be people who openly disagree with us, criticize our values, or even actively work against us.  The word “incensed” in the context of the scripture mean  anger, resentment, or hostility. God is realistic about this. Being His follower does not exempt us from facing opposition. But the presence of opposition does not mean the absence of God’s protection. Jesus Himself reminded His disciples, “If the world hates y...