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Wednesday, December 19, 2018

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Judges 13:2-7, 24-25
Psalm 71:3-6, 16-17
Luke 1:5-25

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spirit-filled babies

"He will be filled with the Holy Spirit from His mother's womb." —Luke 1:15

The Holy Spirit filled St. John the Baptist even while he was in the womb of his mother, Elizabeth. The Spirit stirred young Samson as he grew into manhood (Jgs 13:25). As a youth, "the Spirit of the Lord rushed upon David" (1 Sm 16:13).

Today's Scriptures, and numerous other verses throughout the Bible, show that the Holy Spirit works powerfully through pre-born babies, infants, children, and youth. It's no wonder, then, that Satan, his demons, and pawns have promoted and attempted to mandate the widespread use of contraception and abortion. A significant legion of the spirit-filled army of God is removed from the battle against Satan's armies in this way. Therefore, work with the Lord's army by promoting life, from conception to natural death.

Satan has also worked to limit the Lord's army by his attack on children and youth through the culture of death. As today's Scriptures demonstrate, the Holy Spirit plans to fill children and youth and use them as His mighty instruments. The kingdom of darkness tries to steal youth through drugs, sexual sins and perversions, mind-numbing electronic diversions, and much more.

The Holy Spirit has no problem filling babies, children, and youth with his mighty power. Will you pray and work so that the Spirit can move freely in all members of the Body of Christ?

Prayer:  Father, may I not persist in my "unbelief, but believe" that You can profoundly reach children and youth (see Jn 20:27).

Promise:  "The boy grew up and the Lord blessed him; the Spirit of the Lord first stirred him." —Jgs 13:24-25

Praise:  "O Flower of Jesse's stem, You have been raised up as a Sign for all peoples; kings stand silent in Your presence; the nations bow down in worship before You. Come, let nothing keep You from coming to our aid."

Reference:  (This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.)

Rescript:  †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, July 16, 2018

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