Don’t Lose Your Spiritual Altitude

• Our strength is limited, but God’s is not. When we become weary, we must turn toward Him rather than surrender to discouragement.
• Waiting upon the Lord involves making room for prayer, yielding to Him, and depending upon His help.
• Difficult circumstances do not mean that God has withdrawn His presence. Obstacles will come even while we are seeking to walk closely with Him.
• Do not let discomfort or opposition become an excuse to stop worshipping, obeying, or responding to God.

Scripture: Isaiah 40:28–31.

• The Holy Ghost’s work is not confined to camp meeting, a particular preacher, or a crowded altar. God can help us at home, at work, and throughout ordinary days.
• Bro. Swafford describes his concern about returning to police work after receiving the Holy Ghost. His testimony emphasizes the importance of staying close to God amid difficult surroundings.
• Spiritual renewal must be nurtured through daily fellowship. We cannot neglect time with the Lord and expect yesterday’s experience to sustain every battle.
• Like the mighty man who held firmly to his sword despite weariness, believers must retain what God has given them. Our spiritual weapons are needed outside the church building.

Scriptures: 2 Samuel 23:9–10; Ephesians 6:17.

• God blesses and strengthens His people for a purpose. We must not become satisfied with enjoying His presence while neglecting those who need salvation.
• The eagle illustration challenges believers to do more than gather with familiar people. A life devoted to Christ should accomplish something for His kingdom.
• People are watching our conduct. Our choices at work, among relatives, and in everyday conversations should support our testimony.
• Explain your commitment to Christ graciously. When others question your priorities or convictions, seek an opportunity to point them toward Jesus.

Supporting Scripture: Acts 1:8.

• What we continually allow into our minds and hearts influences how we live. Be willing to examine entertainment, habits, and distractions.
• Bro. Swafford shares changes he made in response to God’s dealings with him. His testimony calls believers to obey the Lord rather than dismiss conviction.
• Christian identity must be more than a claim, an outward symbol, or association with a church. Our daily priorities should demonstrate that we belong to Jesus.
• Consider both your words and your use of time. If prayer continually gets pushed aside, something needs to change.

Scripture: Matthew 12:36.

• Do not accept the thought that God’s promise is only for someone else. Bro. Swafford recalls overcoming that discouragement and becoming hungry for what God had promised.
• Continue praying and yielding without allowing embarrassment or concern about others’ opinions to silence your seeking.
• He distinguishes salvation from the baptism of the Holy Ghost, emphasizing the Spirit’s empowering help for faithful Christian living.
• If you have stepped backward since camp meeting, return to earnest prayer and obedience. Do not settle for remembering what God once did while neglecting your relationship with Him today.

Supporting Scripture: Acts 2:39.

Closing Challenge

Have you allowed prayer, obedience, or spiritual hunger to diminish since camp meeting? Bring that honestly before the Lord. Ask Him to renew your strength and help you regain ground you have surrendered.

There is no secret formula for renewal. Yield yourself to God, respond to His Word, and make room for His presence.

Keep seeking, keep obeying, and take what God has given you into the world. Let yesterday’s blessing produce faithfulness today.