As believers, we have the power of the resurrection in our lives through the Holy Spirit.
We can be confident that he who began the good work in us will carry it on to completion. Much of this work is done through the consistent work of God’s Holy Spirit.
We can fall into the trap of positive thinking as our only source of change. We think we can “choose to be happy” or “choose to be kind.” The truth is that we are human. Emotions and thoughts are not that neat and tidy. We can be 110% confident that we will “never act that way again” and a couple weeks later, we do.
What really changes us and allows us to lead fulfilled lives is turning our obedience to the Holy Spirit’s leading and promptings. Through God’s power at work in us, we are able to live joyfully, choose happiness, or be kind. Those things will only become a consistent part of our lives when we are filled with the Spirit.
I recently read a book called Just Choose Happiness by Nell W. Mohney. She describes five things the Holy Spirt can do in our lives:
Assures us of our salvation
We can be assured of our salvation as the Spirit speaks to us. When we believe, we are justified by Christ’s work on the cross and we receive the Holy Spirit which continually lives within us – assuring us that God is near, even in the darkest times.
Guides us
As we face decisions, the Holy Spirit can speak with guidance. As we pray through life’s forks in the road, God uses the Spirit within us to determine what is best at that time. When faced with the opportunity to do wrong, the Spirit directs us on the right path with conviction.
Instructs us through scripture and worship
The Spirit can always instruct us as we read and hear God’s word. That’s why quiet time is so important and why we need to make sure we’re in worship as the Word is preached. These two times in our daily and weekly routines open our hearts to the possibility of the Holy Spirit teaching us.
Rescues and empowers us
When we are in over our heads, the Holy Spirit comes to our rescue. It may be a tough conversation with someone at home or at work. We may not be sure what to say, but the Holy Spirit gives us the right words at the right time. The Holy Spirit rescues and empowers us when we’re not sure which direction to take or how to get out of a particular situation. The Spirit brings the right thoughts and actions to our minds at the right time.
Empowers our witness
The Spirit is at work in each of us to be a witness and a light. It helps us to have joy; gain a more spiritually mature perspective; and overcome setbacks and weaknesses. The Holy Spirit can use our gifts and weaknesses; and empowers us to share the gospel with the world.
Peter replied, “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.” Acts 2:38
