Reading: Acts 2:37-38

Devotional: Today's reading highlights the transformative power of repentance. When the people heard Peter's message, they were "crushed" by the realization of their actions. This deep conviction led them to ask, "What do we need to do?" Peter's response was clear: repent and be baptized. Repentance is more than just feeling sorry; it's a complete turnaround in our hearts and actions. Reflect on areas in your life where you may need to repent. How can you allow the Holy Spirit to convict you and lead you to true transformation? Remember, God's grace is always available to those who sincerely turn to Him.

Reading: Acts 2:38-39

Devotional: Peter promises the gift of the Holy Spirit to all who repent and are baptized. This promise extends beyond that moment - it's for future generations and "everyone whom the Lord our God calls to himself." The Holy Spirit isn't just for a select few; it's God's gift to all believers. How aware are you of the Holy Spirit's presence in your daily life? Take time today to invite the Holy Spirit to fill you anew, to guide your decisions, and to empower you for God's purposes. Ask for a greater sensitivity to His leading and a willingness to step out in faith when He prompts you.

Reading: Acts 2:41-42

Devotional: The early church grew rapidly, with 3,000 people being added in one day. But what's truly remarkable is how they lived out their faith together. They were "faithfully devoted" to the apostles' teachings, to fellowship, to communion, and to prayer. This wasn't just a Sunday gathering; it was a lifestyle. How devoted are you to these essential practices of faith? Consider how you can deepen your commitment to studying God's Word, fostering genuine fellowship with other believers, remembering Christ's sacrifice, and maintaining a consistent prayer life. The strength of your personal faith often correlates with the strength of your spiritual community.

Reading: Acts 2:43

Devotional: A "deep sense of holy awe swept over everyone" in the early church. This wasn't fear, but a profound reverence for God's presence and power among them. In our familiar, comfortable Christian environments, we can easily lose this sense of awe. When was the last time you were truly in awe of God? Spend time today meditating on God's attributes - His power, love, holiness, and grace. Ask God to renew a sense of wonder in your heart. Look for signs of His work in your life and in the world around you. Let this holy awe inspire your worship and fuel your obedience.

Reading: 2 Chronicles 7:14

Devotional: While not from the Acts passage, this verse encapsulates the key elements for sustained revival: humility, prayer, seeking God, and turning from sin. Revival isn't just an emotional high; it's a sustained transformation of individuals and communities. It requires ongoing commitment and responsiveness to God. Evaluate your spiritual life against these four elements. Are you truly humble before God? Is prayer a priority or an afterthought? Are you actively seeking God's presence and will? Are there sins you need to turn away from? Remember, revival starts with individuals fully surrendered to God. Let it begin with you today.

We encourage you to continue the discussion with a few friends within your HOW Church Community.  Here is a short discussion guide based on Pastor DJ's sermon "Something is Happening to Me".

Opening Prayer: Begin the session with a prayer, inviting the Holy Spirit to guide your discussion and open hearts to God's message.
Ice Breaker Question: Share a time when you experienced a significant spiritual awakening or renewal in your faith journey.

Key Takeaways:

1. Revival is the sustained Power and Presence of God that results in transformation.
2. Prayer and repentance are critical components for experiencing and sustaining revival.
3. True revival leads to internal and external transformation.
4. A genuine encounter with God reshapes our devotion and lifestyle.

Discussion Questions:

1. The sermon defines revival as "the normalization of kingdom culture." What does this mean to you, and how might it look in your daily life?
2. Discuss the importance of prayer in accessing and sustaining revival. How can we cultivate a stronger prayer life individually and as a community?
3. The sermon mentions that "God knows how to pressure you into prayer." Can you share an experience where you felt God urging you to pray more intensely?
4. How does Holy Spirit conviction differ from mere guilt or shame? Why is this distinction important in the process of repentance?
5. The sermon outlines three signs of stale devotion. Which of these resonates with you the most, and why?
6. What does it mean to have our devotion "reshaped" by revival? How might this impact our relationships, priorities, and daily choices?
7. Discuss the balance between internal transformation (repentance) and external expression (baptism) in the Christian walk. Why are both important?

Practical Applications:

1. Prayer Challenge: Commit to spending an additional 15 minutes in prayer each day this week, focusing on inviting God's presence and seeking revival in your life.
2. Devotion Audit: Take time to honestly evaluate your current devotional life. Identify areas of staleness and brainstorm ways to renew your passion for God's presence and Word.
3. Community Action: Discuss as a group one way you can collectively contribute to a "culture of prayer" in your church or community. Make a plan to implement this idea.
4. Repentance Exercise: Spend some quiet time asking the Holy Spirit to reveal any areas in your life that need repentance. Write these down and pray over them throughout the week.
5. Kingdom Culture Reflection: Each day this week, identify one way you can bring "kingdom culture" into your environment (work, home, social settings).

Closing Prayer: End the session by praying for revival – both personally and corporately. Ask God to deepen convictions, transform hearts, and reshape devotions in your group and beyond.