“You have shown me the way of life, and you will fill me with the joy of your presence.’”
Acts 2:28 (NLT)
Peter has already told the crowd that God endorsed Jesus the Victorious by doing miracles, wonders, and signs through him that they all knew about, and that what looked like harm was inside God’s prearranged plan. Then he quotes Psalm 16—words they trusted and understood—so they can see these events were prophesied in the past. It was promised.
As you read David’s words inside the story of Acts, I think you can see how Holy Spirit with David created a change in him that helps us understand why we need Holy Spirit. David says, “The Lord is always with me.” Because he knew the Lord is always with him, he had confidence, “I will not be shaken.” God is right beside me, almost like you driving down the highway and imagining that Jesus is sitting in the passenger seat holding your hand.
That’s what the presence of God produces. Because I know God’s with me, then I have no fear. When we rest in his hope, our heart is glad. And then we can’t help but sing his praises with a mighty shout.
The presence of God through Holy Spirit also shows us the way of life. God right beside us, with us, shows us which way to go, how to act, what to do, what to say. The Holy Spirit teaches us all truth and helps us understand the word, and because we have no fear, we can actually walk the path out.
God’s presence ultimately fills us with joy. That’s the key in Acts 2:28. So if you are stuck in fear, if you can’t praise, if you don’t know which way to go, and if you’ve lost your joy, then you need Holy Spirit, a fresh wind to pour out upon you today. Ask your Father in heaven, and he will do it. He will provide his presence in you and upon you.