More Fire

 

Devotion: The Fire That Blesses

Scripture:
"Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven… Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake." — Matthew 5:3,11 (KJV)
"And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them." — Acts 2:3 (KJV)

Reflection:
Understanding the Hebrew culture and idioms can transform the way we read the Bible. Yesterday, we learned that the Hebrew idea of “blessing” (ashar) paints the picture of “fire on the head.” With that insight, we revisit the Beatitudes in Matthew 5, and suddenly we see Jesus not just offering comfort to the downtrodden but describing the very type of people who will receive the fire of God.

This connection comes vividly alive at Pentecost. In Acts 2, the disciples were together—unified, humble, and prayerful. Suddenly, the sound of a rushing wind filled the room, and tongues like fire rested on their heads. These were not random people. They had been mourning the absence of Christ, poor in spirit without their Master, hungry for righteousness, and ready to suffer for His name. They were, in every sense, the blessed ones Jesus described—now visibly marked by God’s favor and empowered by His Spirit.

Yet today, the idea of Pentecost has often been reduced or distorted. Some view it as a spiritual spectacle. Others misuse it as license for excess or personal indulgence. But true Pentecost is not entertainment—it is empowerment for obedience, sacrifice, and holy living. It’s not about personal gain but complete surrender.

Contemplation:
Am I truly living a Spirit-empowered life, or have I settled for a counterfeit fire? Does my life reflect the character of one who is blessed according to Jesus—not in worldly terms, but in humility, mercy, purity, and suffering for righteousness' sake? Would the fire of Pentecost find a home on my head, or would it pass me by because I am too self-sufficient?

The fire of Pentecost fell on those who had emptied themselves. As Thomas Manton said,

“Before God fills a man with His Spirit, He empties him.”

Let us seek not the fire of emotionalism or fame, but the fire that burns away pride and ignites holy love.

Prayer:
Lord, thank You for the living Word and the richness of its language. Thank You for revealing truth through culture, idiom, and Spirit. I long for the true fire of Pentecost—not for show, but for sanctification. Make me poor in spirit, hungry for righteousness, meek, merciful, and pure in heart. Let me walk the path of blessing, even when it leads through persecution or reviling. Fill me with Your Spirit and let Your holy fire rest upon me. I ask this not for my glory, but for Yours alone. In Jesus’ name, Amen.