THE STORY OF JESUS: Acts 1:23-26
“They prayed, ‘Lord, show us which of these two you have chosen to take over this apostolic ministry. Then they cast lots.'” (Acts 1:25-26)
Jesus promised that the Spirit would lead and guide them after He left (John 16:13).
In this moment of decision, the disciples pray for guidance… then cast lots.
I find this interesting; the way the Spirit leads them is by the use of lots.
Is this how it should always be, should we use the lot with prayer to make all our decisions?
My sense is NO, that we should not try and reduce how the Spirit works to a system.
Their agreement to use this method of discernment was itself the work of the Spirit.
Our community sometimes uses lots, sometimes consensus, sometimes ballots.
Sometimes the Spirit confirms ideas through different people independently of each other.
We believe that the Spirit works through the community as we work together.
Note how the early church community decides not to burden new converts with the laws of Moses.
“It seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us not to burden you…” (Acts 15:28).
Some people prefer to work in isolation, going with how they sense the Spirit prompting them.
My sense is that the Spirit works in fellowship, or community.
He brings us together with God and Jesus and each other, and unites us in heart and mind.
Our job is to strive for that unity and community, and discern the Spirit’s leading together.
“Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” (Ephesians 4:3)
We need to move from ME to WE in our fellowship with God, Jesus and the Spirit… and each other.
Seek the support and encouragement of one another, listen for the Spirit’s guidance through others.
The Lord is eager to guide us, but we will miss out if we isolate ourselves.
What do you sense the Lord saying to you?
PRAYER
Lord, my church family is Your gift to me too. I can learn from them, and receive guidance by Your Spirit through them. As we gather together, may see sense Your leading, and follow it!