The Holy Spirit is an essential component of the Christian faith, and understanding his work is critical to living a life devoted to Christ. But who is the Holy Spirit, what does He do, and what we can do with the Holy Spirit in our lives?
Who is the Holy Spirit?
The Holy Spirit is the third person of the Trinity, along with God the Father and Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit was present at creation, hovering over the waters (Genesis 1:2), and inspired the authors of the Bible (2 Peter 1:21). The Holy Spirit comes to give new life to believers, indwelling and filling disciples. Unlike the Old Testament where his filling was temporary, in the New Testament he indwells us permanently as a deposit to guarantee our inheritance.
When the first Christians received the gift of the Holy Spirit they were empowered to proclaim Christ to the world. We, too, need the power of the Holy Spirit to live for Christ.
What does the Holy Spirit do?
Convicts us of sin: The Holy Spirit helps us to recognize when we have sinned and need to repent. He brings conviction to our hearts and minds, leading us to confess and turn away from our wrongdoing (John 16:8).
Gives us new birth: The Holy Spirit is responsible for our spiritual rebirth, which happens when we put our faith in Jesus Christ. Through the Holy Spirit, we become new creations, with a new identity and purpose (John 3:6).
Indwells us: The Holy Spirit takes up residence in our hearts when we become believers, and he never leaves us. The Holy Spirit is always with us, guiding and directing us as we navigate life (Ephesians 1:13-14).
Empowers us: The Holy Spirit gives us the power to live for Christ, to share the Gospel with others, and to do the work that God has called us to do. The Holy Spirit equips us with spiritual gifts, such as prophecy, teaching, and healing, that we can use to serve others (1 Corinthians 12:11).
Transforms our character: The Holy Spirit works within us to transform us into the image of Christ. He produces the fruit of the Spirit in our lives, which includes love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22).
Gives us the mind of Christ: The Holy Spirit helps us to understand and apply the teachings of Jesus Christ. He gives us wisdom and insight into the things of God, helping us to discern what is true and right (1 Corinthians 2:16).
What do we do with the Holy Spirit?
Walk by the Spirit: Live in dependence on him and submit to his guidance. Keep in step with his leading, follow his promptings, and obey his commands. (Galatians 5:16) When we walk by the Spirit, we produce the fruit of the Spirit and live a life pleasing to God.
Don’t grieve the Spirit: Do not live in disobedience or quench his work in our lives. When we resist the Holy Spirit, we hinder his work and miss out on the blessings that come from walking in step with him.(Ephesians 4:30)
Be filled with the Spirit: Seek to be filled with the Spirit daily, asking him to fill us afresh and empower us for service. (Ephesians 5:18)
Pray in the Spirit: Pray according to his will and guidance. Listen to his promptings, pray with faith, and pray with perseverance. When we pray in the Spirit, we pray with power and effectiveness, and we experience the joy and peace that comes from communing with God. (Ephesians 6:18)
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