Growing in the Spirit

“Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.” –Acts 2:38-39

Growing up in the church I always heard God referred to as the Trinity, The Father, The Son, and The Holy Spirit, but I never really understood the role of the Holy Spirit. I knew that he was God that he lived in my heart when I accepted Christ as my Lord and Savior, but I did not know what that meant or what I was supposed to do with him. Though the Spirit lived in me, he seemed to be the most distant and mysterious role of God, but Jesus even said in Scripture that it is better to have the Spirit here with us then to have the physical presence of Him (Jesus). “But I tell you the truth: It is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Counselor will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you” (John 16:7). This is how I have grown spiritually over the past year through the taking of a book study in Acts, learning about the role of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is my counselor and guide, my intercessor and my strength. He fills me, empowers me, compels me, works through me, leads me, and encourages me. I can do anything with the power of the Spirit in me. I can be bold though I am naturally timid. I can be heard even though I am naturally quiet. I can change the world in big ways even though I am small. The power that the Holy Spirit gives me has changed my life. He is no longer a mystery to me.

“But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid” (John 14:26-27).

While here in San Antonio I have been able to see the Holy Spirit’s power work through me, which ultimately I have seen effect on others. I have spent a lot more time in prayer this summer asking for more boldness, guidance when making decisions, and encouragement when things get hard. He has been my constant friend these past few weeks and I am excited to see how else and where else I will be used by the Holy Spirit this summer and throughout the rest of my life. I have become more open to being used. Knowing this power has changed my outlook on life.