Mel Blackaby

The first Christians “turned the world upside down” (Acts 17:6) shaking the gates of hell even in the face of severe persecution. The result: People all around “were filled with wonder and amazement” (Acts 3:10). What can give Christians today the same impact? God’s Holy Spirit is ready to answer that for us in an awesome way, as Henry Blackaby and his son Mel Blackaby make clear in Experiencing the Spirit. You’ll see how the proof of the Spirit’s presence is our awareness of God’s personal assignments for us, plus our supernatural enablement to carry out those assignments. You’ll find essential clarification on the difference between natural talents and spiritual gifts. You’ll explore the dynamics of being filled with the Spirit through intimate relationship with Him, committed obedience, and radical departure from sin. Instead of considering what you can do for God with your abilities and talents, you’ll be encouraged here to seek what God wants to do through you supernaturally by His Spirit, empowering you beyond your personal competence and capacities. Release the Holy Spirit’s work at the very core of your experience of the Christian life – as He releases you to serve God as never before.

Less Effort, More Joy What is the second mile? It s the difference between living as a good person and enjoying life as a child of God. When you do your best for someone, you go the first mile. When God does "His" best "through" you, you experience the second mile. This can happen only when you let Christ in you take over and empower you to accomplish what is impossible by your natural abilities. While others see you on the first mile, they see Christ on the second. This miraculous Christian life will overwhelm you with more time, energy, and peace. You can t help but freely give more away Because God does not reward your duty, He blesses your relationship with His Son. It s time to experience radical living. It s time to enter into "the second mile" Cease to Strive If someone forces you to go one mile, Jesus said, go with him two miles (Matthew 5: 41). Are you obligated to serve regardless of a mediocre attitude? "Are you supposed to be exhausted? " So God Can Thrive Author Mel Blackaby carefully unfolds the true meaning of Christ s words so you will see that it s not about "you." While the world sees your good works on the first mile, they see Christ s power working through you on the second. He carries the burden and takes you beyond yourself. First mile living is cramped and unsatisfying. When you stride beyond it, chains fall off and freedom ensues. True rest, fulfillment, joy, and other surprising treasures become yours when you dare to embark upon the second mile. Story Behind the Book As a pastor in North America, I am amazed by how many Christians struggle with depression, anxiety, and stress. The burdens of life overwhelm them, and they pull back from serving the Lord, thinking they can t take any more pressure. While visiting Mozambique, I went to the home of a native pastor who also works a secular job to support his life, his church, and another mission church. I was shocked at how little he had. He was giving his all to the Lord and existing on the bare minimum. As I consider his challenges, I am struck by his contagious smile. He has taken the yoke of Jesus and learned from Him; he has found rest for his soul and lives abundantly; he is walking in the second mile. I want God s children everywhere to know the same joy and privilege that comes from serving God. Mel Blackaby "From the Hardcover edition.""