Wednesday, September 24, 2014

God IN Us

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Does God sometimes seem far away—separate and unconcerned about what is happening in our lives? According to John 14:16 the feeling is merely an illusion, for Jesus promised He would constantly be with each one of us, in the form of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit links heaven and earth—God and each of us.

The Holy Spirit has been active among people from the beginning of creation. In Old Testament times, the Holy Spirit ministered through select national leaders, prophets, priests, and kings. However, after Jesus rose from the dead, every believer is privileged to be touched and set apart for ministry by the Spirit.

Regretfully, many of us walk around unaware of this holy Power present within us. In preparing a lesson for my Senior High Sunday school class, I listed some of the ways the Holy Spirit ministers in and through us:

The Holy Spirit reveals the truth about God.
John 14: 17a

The Holy Spirit is our helper.
He teaches us.
He reminds us of Jesus' words.
John 14:26

The Holy Spirit teaches what is right and wrong
He announces God's judgment.
John 16:8

The Holy Spirit brings us messages from God.
He gives insight into future events.
John 16: 13

The Holy Spirit empowers us to minister.
He helps us be witnesses for God.
Acts 1:8

The Holy Spirit strengthens us when we are weak.
He prays for us.
Romans 8:26

The Holy Spirit gives us gifts to use in ministering.
1 Corinthians 12:4

The Holy Spirit produces spiritual fruit in us.
Galatians 5:22-23

This list is very incomplete. There is so much more that God, in the person of the Holy Spirit, does.

Personally, what struck me the most as I prepared this study is that the Holy Spirit is God present within every believer. GOD IS IN US—in you and in me . . . ALWAYS—all day, every day. Now that is an awesome thought fact!

What Scriptures would you add to this list? Out of all that you know about the Holy Spirit, what brings you the most peace and comfort?

Blessings!
Pam

©2014 Pamela D. Williams