CHRISTIAN DEVOTION: "WHEN THE HOLY SPIRIT COMES UPON YOU"

That night in Jayapura bore witness to the truth that the Holy Spirit is still moving with real power. As thousands gathered in worship and praise, there was one united longing: that the presence of God would fill the land of Papua. And indeed, just as promised in Acts 1:8, “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you…”

The Holy Spirit is not merely a theological concept. He is a divine person who gives power, love, and self-control to every believer. Ps. Philip reminded us that for too long, God’s people—including those in Papua—have lived a form of Christianity that only knows God intellectually, without truly surrendering their hearts. This is the trap of Theophilus: knowing about God, but not truly encountering Him.

But that night, many chose to be born again. Many opened their hearts and said, “Lord Jesus, come into my heart.” Others experienced deliverance and the baptism of the Holy Spirit. They wept, cried out, and rejoiced in spiritual tongues—not out of emotion, but because the Holy Spirit was working deeply within their lives.

Papua, the land of the Gospel, was lovingly warned: do not compromise truth with tradition or superstition. The Gospel must remain pure. The Word must be preached. And the Holy Spirit must be given room. It is not enough to be culturally Christian—we must become true disciples of Christ, filled with the Holy Spirit and walking in holiness.

When the Holy Spirit comes, He transforms. He gives power to witness, strength to forgive, and courage to live righteously. And as was declared boldly that night: “Papua is full of the glory of God.” Not only because of its natural beauty, but because the hearts of its people have been filled with the Holy Spirit.

Let us ask ourselves: has the Holy Spirit come upon our lives? Have we been truly transformed? Let us not settle with simply knowing about God. Receive Him, live in Him, and be His witness. For when the Holy Spirit comes, Papua is not just in our hearts—Papua becomes His altar.

Amen.