TIME AT HAND • Focus on self. Do we think of our needs, concerns and wants rather than obeying Jesus’ command to deny ourselves and follow Him in the way that He lived? Removing such Holy Spirit quenchers takes a radical passion for God and a herculean commitment to follow and obey Him, no matter what the cost. Perhaps it is time . . . If not now, when? If not you and me, who? “If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves and pray and seek My face; and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, forgive their sin, and heal their land” (II Chronicles 7:14) Sergeant Steve Simms is the corps officer of the Berry Street Corps in Nashville Tennessee. by SERGEANT STEVE SIMMS When I compare my life and my Christian experience to that of the believers we read about in the book of Acts, I don’t see the same spiritual power, the same life transformation or the same mighty move of God that they saw. So why is my Christian lifestyle so much weaker than that of the first believers? Perhaps it is disobedience to four simple words: “Quench not the Spirit” (1 Thessalonians 5:19). What quenches the Spirit? • Being bound by tradition. Jesus Himself said that our tradition could make “the Word of God of no effect.” Do we follow tradition in church gatherings rather than being open to and obeying the promptings of the Holy Spirit? Willful disobedience. Do we know that God wants • us to do or say something and refuse to do or say it? • Willful sin. Do we think, say, watch, listen to or do things that we know are morally wrong? Adventures in Faith Send check to: From Women’s Ministries Resources 30 The War Cry | JUNE 2013