36 “Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.” 37 When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?” 38 Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 41 Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day. Acts 2:36-38, 41 (NIV)
The truth about God’s love should cut every person to the heart. We have never been loved so much. God’s wisdom, power, and love was shown to us through Jesus Christ at the cross. Has your heart been cut by the love of God? Submit to Him; reach back to Him as He is reaching out to you.
What is holding you back? Are you afraid you won’t get it right? The disciples weren’t perfect. The earliest believers messed up, and all still do today. I have walked with God for decades and there are broken pieces of my life too. God knows your heart and that’s what He is after. He knows your struggles. He is intimately familiar with you. He is reaching out to you for your rescue now and for eternity. God will work through His Holy Spirit to heal you and repair the brokenness.
3,000 people responded in the moment with repentance and baptism on this day long ago.
God still invites us to respond in the moment. The 3000 didn’t go home and think about it. They responded in the moment. They knew God did good things in their life and went forward in belief and baptism. You can respond to God just like this. Make a decision right now and choose Jesus.
It’s not fancy words. You don’t have to wait till you go to church next Sunday. I found the deep love and comfort of Jesus when I was alone in my bedroom. I said something like this and you can use these words if you like:
Dear God, I don’t know all about You. But I need You now in my life. I’m alone and scared. I don’t know what this all means, but if You love me like the Bible and the Pastor says, please come into my heart. Help me to know You more. Help me in my messy life and hurting heart. I need You now. I understand Jesus died for my mistakes, thank You. Help me to do better. Amen.
My first encounter with the Holy Spirit was feeling loved and held that same moment I prayed those words. I pray your first encounter will be even more special. The time is now. Welcome to the family of God. Your Heavenly Father who loves you so much.