Wind, Fire, and Grace: Understanding the Holy Spirit
The Mysterious Yet Relational Holy Spirit
Have you ever stopped to think about the two truths that make the Holy Spirit so fascinating? On one hand, the Spirit is mysterious and beyond our human understanding. On the other hand, He grants us a deep and intimate relationship with God.
The Mysterious Nature of the Holy Spirit
Let’s face it, the Holy Spirit is not a figure we can envision or comprehend. We can relate to God the Father and Jesus the Son, but the Holy Spirit is more elusive. He’s not even a name, but a title that’s intentional to keep the focus on our relationship with God. Jesus described the Spirit as wind, fire, a dove, and living water – unseen, yet felt and experienced.
The Focus of Our Relationship
But here’s the amazing thing – the Holy Spirit doesn’t seek to draw attention to Himself; rather, He makes our relationship with the Father and the Son real and alive. Not theoretical or religious, but living, breathing, and personal.
The Convictor, Regenerator, and Assurance
The Holy Spirit has three key roles in our lives:
- Convictor: He convicts unbelievers, not to shame them, but to save them, revealing our sin so that we trust Jesus for His promises.
- Regenerator: He makes us alive by His power and grace, saving us from deception and into eternal life.
- Assurance: He assures us that we belong to God, that we’re His children, and that we’re loved and forgiven.
The Spirit’s Work in Our Lives
The Spirit helps us know God personally, making God personal. He moves us from information about God to communion with God. He comforts us, coming alongside us in times of need. And He assures us that we belong to God, even when we don’t feel like it.
Abide, Believe, and Obey
So, how do we deepen our understanding of the Holy Spirit’s work in our lives? By practicing three relational habits:
- Abide: Stay close to Jesus, making Him your daily center.
- Believe: Trust His Word, even when it’s hard.
- Obey: Act on what you believe, responding to the Spirit’s leading.
The Promise of the Holy Spirit
As we abide, believe, and obey, we can be assured that God will do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us. He will never desert us, nor will He ever forsake us. And He will do it with us, providing what we need to obey.
The Holy Spirit in You
The Spirit is with you, in you, leading you into the fullness of Christ. He is mysterious, unseen, powerful, and free – but not distant. He is holy and transcendent – but deeply personal. And He’s doing that work in you.
So, take a step of faith today. Abide in Jesus, believe His promises, and obey His leading. Watch what God does through a life surrendered to His Spirit.