We Believe: In the Holy Spirit

"And being assembled together with them, He commanded them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the Promise of the Father, 'which,' He said, 'you have heard from Me; for John truly baptized with water, but you shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.' Therefore, when they had come together, they asked Him, saying, 'Lord, will You at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?' And He said to them, 'It is not for you to know times or seasons which the Father has put in His own authority. But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.'" - Acts 1:4-8 

Reflection

The Holy Spirit is an essential part of the Christian faith, representing God's presence and power in our lives. In Acts 1:4-8, Jesus instructs His disciples to wait for the Promise of the Father, which is the baptism of the Holy Spirit. This promise is not just for the early disciples but for all believers. The Holy Spirit empowers us to be witnesses for Christ, giving us the strength and courage to share the gospel and live out our faith. 

The Holy Spirit's role is further emphasized in Romans 8:14-17, where we are reminded that those who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God. The Spirit we receive is not one of fear, but of adoption, allowing us to call out to God as our Father. This intimate relationship with God is made possible through the Holy Spirit, who bears witness with our spirit that we are His children. As children of God, we are also heirs with Christ, sharing in His sufferings and glory. 

The Holy Spirit empowers us to live a life that is pleasing to God. He guides us in our decisions, convicts us of sin, and helps us to grow in our faith. The Holy Spirit also equips us with spiritual gifts to serve others and build up the body of Christ. Through the Holy Spirit, we experience God's presence and power in our lives, enabling us to fulfill the mission that Jesus has given us. 

Personal Application

Reflecting on the role of the Holy Spirit in my life, I am reminded of the importance of being open and receptive to His leading. It is easy to rely on my own strength and understanding, but the Holy Spirit calls me to depend on Him and trust in His guidance. I am encouraged to seek a deeper relationship with the Holy Spirit through prayer, worship, and studying God's Word. 

As I allow the Holy Spirit to work in my life, I am empowered to be a witness for Christ. This means sharing the gospel with others, living out my faith in my daily actions, and using the gifts that the Holy Spirit has given me to serve others. The Holy Spirit also helps me to overcome fear and live with boldness and confidence, knowing that I am a child of God and an heir with Christ. 

Thought-Provoking Questions

1. How does the presence of the Holy Spirit in your life influence your daily decisions and actions? 
2. In what ways can you be more open and receptive to the leading of the Holy Spirit? 
3. How can you use the gifts that the Holy Spirit has given you to serve others and build up the body of Christ? 
4. What steps can you take to deepen your relationship with the Holy Spirit and experience His presence and power in your life? 

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of the Holy Spirit. Help me to be open and receptive to His leading in my life. Guide me in my decisions and empower me to live a life that is pleasing to You. Strengthen my relationship with the Holy Spirit and help me to use the gifts that He has given me to serve others and build up the body of Christ. May I experience Your presence and power in my life each day. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Written by Sarah Leasure