Expectancy!

The definition of the word “Expectancy” is as follows:
Excited anticipation: excited awareness that something is about to happen.

• an air of expectancy hung over the crowd.

If the dynamic power of the Holy Spirit is not being manifested in our services, there is no one to point a finger at but ourselves. Well-intending church goers have told me for years that if someone would change the style of music played in a worship service to more suit their liking or preferences, or if the pastor wouldn’t preach, etc. etc., then the Spirit of God would be free to do something powerful. Maybe there is some truth in their words. Still, I can't quite perceive that whether the music is traditional hymns, country/western, Hebraic, Contemporary, Rock n' Roll or Black Gospel, that God's potential to accomplish something hinges on our cultural preferences. We've replaced the necessity of FAITH with the desire for ENJOYMENT.

However, when believers assemble or attend church, without bringing a sense of expectancy, the emphasis is invariably placed on the service content and those who conduct it for its perceived success or failure. And the success or failure inevitably hinges on whether the service was "enjoyed." The ritual, tradition or service has no power in itself. To follow the rituals and traditions of a Church service requires nothing but being there. Faith is not a key ingredient to the participation of a worship service. It’s not necessarily the ritual or the tradition at fault, but the lack of EXPECTANCY in the hearts of those who are gathered for worship. That stands true for the leadership and the congregation alike.

Those who meet together with faith and expectancy will see great manifestations of God’s presence and power. God never promised that those who attend Church would find Him or see Him revealed on any level. I have seen some of the greatest demonstrations of the presence of God in services with the worst music conceivable. Musical quality or style is irrelevant to the Holy Spirit’s being present. But… FAITH is required. The Bible says, “...and you will seek Me and you shall find Me, when you search for Me with ALL YOUR HEART.” God’s Spirit operates in full potential of power and demonstration when and where PEOPLE decidedly bring a sense of EXPECTANCY to whatever ritual or tradition they practice. We should EXPECT God’s Spirit to be present. EXPECT miracles. EXPECT signs and wonders. EXPECT the gifts to operate. EXPECT power. Waiting on the ritual or tradition to change to suit your liking will only leave you waiting. EXPECTANCY is the key YOU possess that the Holy Sprit can USE every time believers assemble together. What shall it be?

Anytime you come before God... come EXPECTING

With all your heart, come EXPECTING.

Drink deeply,

JP