the Third Week after Easter
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Daily Devotionals
Our Daily Homily - Volume 1
Exodus 40:38—The cloud of the Lord by day,... and there was fire therein by night. (R.V.)
This was the cloud of the Shechinah, in the heart of which was fire, the symbol of the presence of God. Probably this fire was always present, but only visible against the background of the surrounding darkness. In the New Testament fire is always associated with the ministry of the Holy Spirit; and in Isaiah (Isaiah 4:5) we learn that in the coming time God would give, on every dwelling-place in Mount Zion, and in all her assemblies, the same cloud of smoke by day, and flaming fire by night, as had been vouchsafed to the Tabernacle where God dwelt. What a glorious revelation is this!
The Holy Spirit brooding over each individual believer.—It is a symptom of the highest life, when God spreads His tabernacle over the soul. We should march only when He lifts up His enfolding presence, rest under His canopy, and recognize the sanctity of all life.
The Holy Spirit resting on each home.—"Every dwelling-place in Zion" must stand for the homes of God’s people. How blessed it is when the home is a temple, and each inmate of the beloved circle a priest! Such homes are rare, but they are possible. Let those who are founding a new family make this their ideal.
The Holy Spirit directing and filling each assembly and believer—As of old the movements of the cloud determined those of the tent and people, so in the Pentecostal Church the Spirit was Guide, Director, Executor. "Separate Me... to the work to which . have called them." We must rely most absolutely on Him, waiting for His initiation, his teaching, the settling down of His infinite benediction. Then there will be glory and defence.
