Saved by the Spirit

Israel had disobeyed God. They had served other gods and defied His Word. As a result, they fell under the control of a rival nation. It must have seemed like a hopeless situation. They seemed perpetually destined to be dominated by others. Then, finally, they cried out to God, and everything changed.

He responded by sending Othniel to lead them. We don’t know much about Othniel, but we know that his name means “the force of God,” and he led them to victory. Othniel rescued God’s people after “the Spirit of the Lord came upon him.”

The Spirit gave him the wisdom to know what to do and the winning strategy. The Spirit gave him boldness and the gifts needed to be a good leader. The Spirit opened doors and enabled them to be victorious.

This pattern applies to us today. If we sin, God is ready to hear us repent. When we call, He is prepared to help us. He is ready to send His Spirit to give us the ability, strength, and wisdom we need. We must remember that we are saved not by our efforts, but by God’s force and by His Spirit. God will give us the boldness and the victory we need when we call on Him.

In your life, remember that God is ready to direct and empower you, to save you by the power of His Spirit. Call on Him right now!