His Role

The Holy Spirit works in us and alongside us in remarkable ways. He plays many vital roles in our lives, revealing God’s thoughts, guiding us into all truth, and supporting us in our weaknesses. He teaches and reminds us of the Bible’s wisdom, helping us discern right from wrong and make wise decisions. The Holy Spirit cultivates leadership character and spirit, guiding us through difficult times and steering us away from temptations. Though He may grieve when we ignore His counsel, He never gives up on us.

Our unique past experiences shape how we interpret the Bible. While we should be vigilant against false doctrines and teachings that sow confusion and division, let us strive to maintain harmony and unity.

“Now these are the gifts Christ gave to the church: the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, and the pastors and teachers. Their responsibility is to equip God’s people to do his work and build up the church, the body of Christ. This will continue until we all come to such unity in our faith and knowledge of God’s Son that we will be mature in the Lord, measuring up to the full and complete standard of Christ. Then we will no longer be immature like children. We won’t be tossed and blown about by every wind of new teaching. We will not be influenced when people try to trick us with lies so clever they sound like the truth. Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church.”  Ephesians 4:11-15 (NLT)

Most confusions arise from good intentions but incorrect interpretations. For instance, we may have heard the phrase, "Let the Holy Spirit have the steering wheel of your life," suggesting God controls our lives. While it sounds beautiful, it isn't Biblical. The Holy Spirit is gentle and never forces us to relinquish our control. Instead, as the Scriptures indicate, evil spirits can take charge of individuals. The Holy Spirit guides us like a GPS, offering advice on which path to choose without imposing action. When we stray off course, He doesn't abandon us; He provides new opportunities and helps us find our way back to the right path. The Holy Spirit invites us to willingly and independently trust in His guidance.

The indwelling of the Holy Spirit

The indwelling of the Holy Spirit begins when we genuinely accept Jesus as our Lord. He is the seal and assurance that we are saved for eternity, adopted as God's cherished children and heirs:

“In him you also, having heard the word of the truth, the Good News of your salvation—in whom, having also believed, you were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit.”  Ephesians 1:13

"The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are children of God; and if children, then heirs: heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with him, that we may also be glorified with him. Romans 8:16,17"

Please click on “Engulfed” to continue.