'The Spirit and Power of Elijah' - Luke 1:17

[The angel said to Zechariah, "John] will be a man with the spirit and power of Elijah. He will prepare the people for the coming of the Lord. He will turn the hearts of the fathers to their children, and he will cause those who are rebellious to accept the wisdom of the godly."

—Luke 1:17 NLT

Key Thought​

Israel looked forward to the return of Elijah, the prophet who was to precede the Messiah. [1] Since Elijah didn't die but went straight to God, the Israelites believed he would return. On his return, he would continue his powerful ministry of preaching God's truth. His message would unite generations and call the people to life-changing repentance. Why was his coming so important? It was necessary to prepare God's people for Jesus. The angel told Zechariah that John would be the fulfillment of the prophecy about Elijah's return. [2] Shouldn't we see our lives as having a similar calling, even if it means suffering? Didn't God put us where we are so that our words and actions prepare others to know Jesus?

[1] Malachi 4:5-6.
[2] Mark 1:1-4.

Today's Prayer​

Holy and righteous God, my Abba Father, please use my life to prepare the way for Jesus in the lives of those I love and with whom I have influence. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings​

• 1 Peter 3:13-17
• Mark 13:11
• Luke 9:23-26

---

Ⓒ 1996-2023 Heartlight, Inc. This material may not be reproduced in part or whole for commercial use without written consent. What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form. Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

Continue reading...

 

[GreeterMadelynn]

The Spirit of the Lord shall come to those who are faithful and true to Him.

 

[Rizakar]

Lord, I pray to always have right thinking that lines up with Your Word and that my faith grows stronger in every way so that I might touch others lives when it comes to the knowledge of Jesus Christ. Amen.

 

[WingsofaDove]

Repent of any known sin. Forgive anyone who hurt you. Praise the Lord! Thank the Lord! Pray daily. Renounce pride. Pride hinders prayers. Check house for objects that may be ungodly and remove. Keep friends who are Godly and good influences. Don't complain. Don't doubt his good plans for us. He is trying to get us to be a certain type of person. He's not always giving us exactly what we want. Don't grieve God's spirit. It's a relationship not a religion. Give to others. Love your neighbor.