Topic: The Holy Spirit – 2021

2 Corinthians 13:14 | MSG (14) The amazing grace of the Master, Jesus Christ, the extravagant love of God, the intimate friendship of the Holy Spirit, be with all of you.

1 Corinthians 12:1 | NKJV (1) Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I do not want you to be ignorant:

1 Corinthians 12:1 | BBE (1) But about the things of the spirit, my brothers, it is not right for you to be without teaching.

The Gifts of the Spirit

1 Corinthians 12:4-11 | NKJV (4) There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. (5) There are differences of ministries, but the same Lord. (6) And there are diversities of activities, but it is the same God who works all in all. (7) But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all: (8) for to one is given the word of wisdom through the Spirit, to another the word of knowledge through the same Spirit, (9) to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healings by the same Spirit, (10) to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another discerning of spirits, to another different kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues. (11) But one and the same Spirit works all these things, distributing to each one individually as He wills.

• When the Holy Spirit is moving, Jesus will be the only one being lifted up. (John 16:13-14)
• The Word and the Holy Spirit will always agree and never conflict with each other. (1 John 5:7)
• A perfect Holy Spirit desires to move though imperfect people.

The gifts of the Spirit can be categorized:

• The Gifts that Say Something (utterance):

1. 1. The Gift of Divers kinds of tongues is a supernatural utterance in an unknown tongue.
   2. The Gift of Interpretation of tongues is a supernatural revealing of that which has been said in an unknown tongue.
   3. The Gift of Prophecy is a supernatural utterance in a known tongue.

• The Gifts that Reveal Something (revelation):

1. 1. The Gift of the Word of Knowledge is the supernatural revelation by the Holy Ghost of certain facts in the mind of God. (past or present)
   2. The Gift of the Word of Wisdom – a supernatural revelation by the Spirit of God concerning the divine purposes and plans in the mind and will of God. (future)
   3. The Gift of Discerning of spirits is the supernatural insight into the realm of spirits.

The Gifts that Do Something (Power Gifts):

1. The Gift of Faith – a supernatural manifestation of the Holy Spirit whereby a believer is empowered with special faith and it is beyond simple saving faith.

1 Corinthians 12:9 | AMP (9) To another [wonder-working] faith by the same [Holy] Spirit…

• • The gift of faith is given to the believer so that he can RECEIVE miracles.

Daniel 6:21-23 | NKJV (21) Then Daniel said to the king, “O king, live forever! (22) My God sent His angel and shut the lions’ mouths, so that they have not hurt me, because I was found innocent before Him; and also, O king, I have done no wrong before you.” (23) Now the king was exceedingly glad for him, and commanded that they should take Daniel up out of the den. So Daniel was taken up out of the den, and no injury whatever was found on him, because he believed in his God.

• • When special faith is in operation, the believer will believe God in such a way, that God honors their word as if it is His own and miraculously causes it to come to pass.

Joshua 10:12-14 | NKJV (12) Then Joshua spoke to the LORD in the day when the LORD delivered up the Amorites before the children of Israel, and he said in the sight of Israel: “Sun, stand still over Gibeon; And Moon, in the Valley of Aijalon.” (13) So the sun stood still, And the moon stopped, Till the people had revenge Upon their enemies. Is this not written in the Book of Jasher? So the sun stood still in the midst of heaven, and did not hasten to go down for about a whole day. (14) And there has been no day like that, before it or after it, that the LORD heeded the voice of a man; for the LORD fought for Israel.

• • This special faith cannot be increased by hearing and feeding on the Word of God like simple saving faith can.
  • Smith Wigglesworth said, “…If you will take a step of ordinary faith, when you come to the end of that faith, very often this supernatural gift of special faith will take over. One reason more folks don’t see the manifestation of special faith operating in their lives is that they don’t first use what faith they already have.”

2. The Gift of the Working of Miracles – a supernatural intervention by God in the ordinary course of nature, a temporary suspension of the normal order, operated by the power of the Holy Spirit.

• • The Gift of Special Faith receives the miracle, where the Gift of Working of miracles does the miracle.
  • The Greek word for “miracles” in 1 Corinthians 12:10 means: acts of powers, explosions of almightiness, staggering wonders or astonishments.

John 2:5-11 | NKJV (5) His mother said to the servants, “Whatever He says to you, do it.” (6) Now there were set there six waterpots of stone, according to the manner of purification of the Jews, containing twenty or thirty gallons apiece. (7) Jesus said to them, “Fill the waterpots with water.” And they filled them up to the brim. (8) And He said to them, “Draw some out now, and take it to the master of the feast.” And they took it. (9) When the master of the feast had tasted the water that was made wine, and did not know where it came from (but the servants who had drawn the water knew), the master of the feast called the bridegroom. (10) And he said to him, “Every man at the beginning sets out the good wine, and when the guests have well drunk, then the inferior. You have kept the good wine until now!” (11) This beginning of signs Jesus did in Cana of Galilee, and manifested His glory; and His disciples believed in Him.

• • Jesus fed the multitudes twice with not enough food and it was supernaturally multiplied; He walked on water; calmed the sea, etc.

Acts 6:8 | NKJV (8) And Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and signs among the people.

Acts 8:6 | NKJV (6) And the multitudes with one accord heeded the things spoken by Philip, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did.

3. Gifts of healings – supernatural manifestations for the healing of sickness and disease to deliver the sick and destroy the works of the devil in the human body.

The Gifts of Healings have nothing to do with medical science or natural learning.

Acts 19:11-12 | NKJV (11) Now God worked unusual miracles by the hands of Paul, (12) so that even handkerchiefs or aprons were brought from his body to the sick, and the diseases left them and the evil spirits went out of them.

Acts 28:8 | NKJV (8) And it happened that the father of Publius lay sick of a fever and dysentery. Paul went in to him and prayed, and he laid his hands on him and healed him.

Jesus operated in the Gifts of Healings and Working of Miracles in His ministry.

Jesus did not perform any miracles or heal anybody as the Son of God. He did it as a man anointed by the Holy Spirit and did none of these things until after the Holy Spirit came upon Him and He was anointed.

Jesus was just as much the Son of God when He was 25 as He was when the Holy Ghost came upon Him at 30 but He did not heal anyone when He was 25.

John 14:12 | NKJV (12) “Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also; and greater works than these he will do, because I go to My Father.

2 Corinthians 13:14 | MSG (14) The amazing grace of the Master, Jesus Christ, the extravagant love of God, the intimate friendship of the Holy Spirit, be with all of you.

1 Corinthians 12:1 | NKJV (1) Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I do not want you to be ignorant:

1 Corinthians 12:1 | BBE (1) But about the things of the spirit, my brothers, it is not right for you to be without teaching.

The Gifts of the Spirit

1 Corinthians 12:4-11 | NKJV (4) There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. (5) There are differences of ministries, but the same Lord. (6) And there are diversities of activities, but it is the same God who works all in all. (7) But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all: (8) for to one is given the word of wisdom through the Spirit, to another the word of knowledge through the same Spirit, (9) to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healings by the same Spirit, (10) to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another discerning of spirits, to another different kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues. (11) But one and the same Spirit works all these things, distributing to each one individually as He wills.

• When the Holy Spirit is moving, Jesus will be the only one being lifted up. (John 16:13-14)
• The Word and the Holy Spirit will always agree and never conflict with each other. (1 John 5:7)
• A perfect Holy Spirit desires to move though imperfect people.

The gifts of the Spirit can be categorized:

• Three gifts that say something (utterance):
  • The Gift of Prophecy
  • The Gift of Divers kinds of tongues
  • The Gift of Interpretation of tongues
• Three gifts that reveal something (revelation):
  • The Gift of the Word of Wisdom
  • The Gift of the Word of Knowledge
  • The Gift of the Discerning of spirits
• Three gifts that do something (power):
  • The Gift of Faith (special faith)
  • The Gift of Working of miracles
  • Gifts of Healings

The Gifts that Say Something (utterance):

1. The Gift of Divers kinds of tongues is a supernatural utterance in an unknown tongue.
2. The Gift of Interpretation of tongues is a supernatural revealing of that which has been said in an unknown tongue.
3. The Gift of Prophecy is a supernatural utterance in a known tongue.

The Gifts that Reveal Something (revelation):

1. The Gift of the Word of Knowledge is the supernatural revelation by the Holy Ghost of certain facts in the mind of God.

A word is a fragmentary part of a sentence just as the Word of Knowledge is a fragmentary part of the complete knowledge that God has.

The Word of Knowledge can come through several different means: inward revelation, an angel, dreams, tongues and interpretation, etc.

2 Kings 5:25-26 | NKJV (25) Now he went in and stood before his master. Elisha said to him, “Where did you go, Gehazi?” And he said, “Your servant did not go anywhere.” (26) Then he said to him, “Did not my heart go with you when the man turned back from his chariot to meet you? Is it time to receive money and to receive clothing, olive groves and vineyards, sheep and oxen, male and female servants?

Acts 9:10-12 | NKJV (10) Now there was a certain disciple at Damascus named Ananias; and to him the Lord said in a vision, “Ananias.” And he said, “Here I am, Lord.” (11) So the Lord said to him, “Arise and go to the street called Straight, and inquire at the house of Judas for one called Saul of Tarsus, for behold, he is praying. (12) And in a vision he has seen a man named Ananias coming in and putting his hand on him, so that he might receive his sight.”

2. The gift of the Word of Wisdom – a supernatural revelation by the Spirit of God concerning the divine purposes and plans in the mind and will of God.

The difference between the Word of Knowledge and the Word of Wisdom is that the Word of Knowledge is always present tense or concerning something that has happened in the past. The Word of Wisdom is pertaining to things in the future.

Genesis 37:6-7 | NKJV (6) So he said to them, “Please hear this dream which I have dreamed: (7) There we were, binding sheaves in the field. Then behold, my sheaf arose and also stood upright; and indeed your sheaves stood all around and bowed down to my sheaf.”

The Holy Spirit will often use the two of them together.

Acts 9:13-16 | NKJV (13) Then Ananias answered, “Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much harm he has done to Your saints in Jerusalem. (14) And here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who call on Your name.” (15) But the Lord said to him, “Go, for he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel. (16) For I will show him how many things he must suffer for My name’s sake.”

Acts 11:27-29 | NKJV (27) And in these days prophets came from Jerusalem to Antioch. (28) Then one of them, named Agabus, stood up and showed by the Spirit that there was going to be a great famine throughout all the world, which also happened in the days of Claudius Caesar. (29) Then the disciples, each according to his ability, determined to send relief to the brethren dwelling in Judea.

Acts 27:10-11 | NKJV (10) saying, “Men, I perceive that this voyage will end with disaster and much loss, not only of the cargo and ship, but also our lives.” (11) Nevertheless the centurion was more persuaded by the helmsman and the owner of the ship than by the things spoken by Paul.

3. The Gift of Discerning of spirits is the supernatural insight into the realm of spirits.

Discern: to perceive by seeing or hearing

It is somewhat limited because it is only revelation into the realm of the spirit and not as broad as the word of knowledge or the word of wisdom.

• • • It is not the gift of discernment or suspicion.
    • It is not the gift of discerning the faults of others.
    • It is not limited to the discerning of devils.

The gift of discerning of spirits is supernatural insight into the spirit world where there are Divine spirits as well as evil spirits.

Acts 16:16-18 | NKJV (16) Now it happened, as we went to prayer, that a certain slave girl possessed with a spirit of divination met us, who brought her masters much profit by fortune-telling. (17) This girl followed Paul and us, and cried out, saying, “These men are the servants of the Most High God, who proclaim to us the way of salvation.” (18) And this she did for many days. But Paul, greatly annoyed, turned and said to the spirit, “I command you in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her.” And he came out that very hour.

Paul probably saw into the spirit realm and saw the spirit behind what this girl was doing because he spoke directly to the spirit.

You do not necessarily need the discerning of spirits to know when something is out of order. You can know that simply by the inward witness of your spirit.

Acts 27:23-24 | NKJV (23) For there stood by me this night an angel of the God to whom I belong and whom I serve, (24) saying, ‘Do not be afraid, Paul; you must be brought before Caesar; and indeed God has granted you all those who sail with you.’

Any time in the scriptures that someone had an angelic visitation and “saw” the angel, this was through the gift of Discerning of Spirits.

Remember, these manifestations are to operate in the life of believers not just preachers and great ministers.

They are, however, as the Holy Spirit wills and not as we will.

2 Corinthians 13:14 | MSG (14) The amazing grace of the Master, Jesus Christ, the extravagant love of God, the intimate friendship of the Holy Spirit, be with all of you.

1 Corinthians 12:1 | NKJV (1) Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I do not want you to be ignorant:

1 Corinthians 12:1 | BBE (1) But about the things of the spirit, my brothers, it is not right for you to be without teaching.

Introduction to the Gifts of the Spirit

A wise Minister said that if you want the gifts of the Spirit in manifestation in your church, you should hunger for and pray for them, but you must teach on them. You should always teach on what you desire to see in your church.

Ephesians 4:11-12 | TPT (11) And he has appointed some with grace to be apostles, and some with grace to be prophets, and some with grace to be evangelists, and some with grace to be pastors, and some with grace to be teachers.  (12)  And their calling is to nurture and prepare all the holy believers to do their own works of ministry, and as they do this they will enlarge and build up the body of Christ.

1 Corinthians 12:4-11 | NKJV (4) There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. (5) There are differences of ministries, but the same Lord. (6) And there are diversities of activities, but it is the same God who works all in all. (7) But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all: (8) for to one is given the word of wisdom through the Spirit, to another the word of knowledge through the same Spirit, (9) to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healings by the same Spirit, (10) to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another discerning of spirits, to another different kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues. (11) But one and the same Spirit works all these things, distributing to each one individually as He wills.

• When the Holy Spirit is moving, Jesus will be the only one being lifted up.

John 16:13-14 | NKJV (13) However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come. (14) He will glorify Me, for He will take of what is Mine and declare it to you.

• The Word and the Holy Spirit will always agree and never conflict with each other.

1 John 5:7 | NKJV (7) For there are three that bear witness in heaven: the Father, the Word, and the Holy Spirit; and these three are one.

• A perfect Holy Spirit desires to move though imperfect people.
• In the New Testament, the doorway into the Gifts of the Spirit is the Baptism of the Holy Spirit. 
• Believers who have not received this experience can and should be used by God to minister to others. These manifestations add a different dimension to ministry to others.

The gifts of the Spirit can be categorized:

1. Three gifts that say something (vocal):

• • The Gift of Prophecy
  • The Gift of Divers kinds of tongues
  • The Gift of Interpretation of tongues

2. Three gifts that reveal something (revelation):

• • The Gift of the word of wisdom
  • The Gift of the word of knowledge
  • The Gift of discerning of spirits

3. Three gifts that do something or action (power):

• • The gift of faith (special faith)
  • The working of miracles
  • The gifts of healings

The Gifts that Say Something (Vocal):

1. The Gift of Divers kinds of tongues is a supernatural utterance in an unknown tongue.

Divers Kinds of Tongues is supernatural utterance by the Holy Spirit in languages never learned by the speaker, nor understood by the speaker, nor necessarily understood by the hearer.

The Gifts of Tongues is the most prominent as it is often the most manifested gift in our services, it is the initial evidence of the baptism of the Holy Ghost, and it is only found in the Church Age.

Speaking in tongues has nothing to do with linguistic ability; it has nothing to do with the mind or intellect of man. It is a vocal miracle of the Holy Spirit.

2. The Gift of Interpretation of tongues is a supernatural revealing of that which has been said in an unknown tongue.

Interpretation of tongues is not a translation of a message in tongues. 

The purpose of this gift is simply to render the gift of tongues understandable to the hearers so the whole church congregation as well as the one who gave the utterance in an unknown tongue, may know what has been said and be edified.

1 Corinthians 14:13 | NKJV (13) Therefore let him who speaks in a tongue pray that he may interpret.

There is Interpretation of tongues in your private prayer times and interpretation of tongues in a corporate setting. In your private time, there could be revelation or insight that comes or it could, you could see something, or a thought rise up out of your spirit.

3. The Gift of Prophecy is a supernatural utterance in a known tongue.

1 Corinthians 14:3 | NKJV (3) But he who prophesies speaks edification and exhortation and comfort to men.

In the simple gift of prophecy there is no revelation, only edification, exhortation and comfort. 

The gift of prophecy is greatest of the utterance gifts because it takes the other two, divers kinds of tongues and interpretation of tongues to equal this one gift.

1 Corinthians 14:1 | NKJV (1) Pursue love, and desire spiritual gifts, but especially that you may prophesy.

1 Corinthians 14:39 | NKJV (39) Therefore, brethren, desire earnestly to prophesy, and do not forbid to speak with tongues.

• • • God desires for all present in the church to be blessed by this gift.
    • With this gift there is a forthtelling but not a foretelling.
    • The gift of prophecy goes beyond speaking by our own reasoning processes and intellect.
    • It may be involved in preaching as some preaching may be an inspired utterance.
    • It may be involved in witnessing or sharing because one may be inspired to share something with someone else. For instance, one may be led to share a scripture or encouraging word with someone. That can be the Gift of Prophecy in operation.
    • There is a difference between this simple gift of prophesy and the office of the Prophet. Just because you might be used in this gift does not make you a Prophet.
    • Simple gift of prophecy in private prayer along with the word of wisdom is available to every believer.

Ephesians 5:18-19 | NIV (18) Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit, (19) speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord,

Psalms, hymns and spiritual songs are a form of prophecy as they are an inspired utterance given to us by the Spirit.

2 Corinthians 13:14 | MSG (14) The amazing grace of the Master, Jesus Christ, the extravagant love of God, the intimate friendship of the Holy Spirit, be with all of you.

1 Corinthians 12:1 | NKJV (1) Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I do not want you to be ignorant:

The word “gifts” was added by the translators. This verse actually says, 

1 Corinthians 12:1 | BBE (1) But about the things of the spirit, my brothers, it is not right for you to be without teaching.

In the previous messages, we have looked at how you can be led by the Holy Spirit. Please review these for insight.

A requirement to being led by the Holy Spirit and being used by God in spiritual things is that we must develop a sensitivity to spiritual things and specifically the Holy Spirit. 

How Do We Become More Spiritually Sensitive?

1. Give the Word of God first place.

 This means that the Word has final authority in your life above what you see, feel, or hear.

 God gave us our five physical senses and they are great if they do not contradict the Word of God. The moment that they do contradict the Word, you must choose to go with the Word instead of what they say to you.

 Isaiah 55:8-11 | NKJV (8) “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, Nor are your ways My ways,” says the LORD. (9) “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways, And My thoughts than your thoughts. (10) “For as the rain comes down, and the snow from heaven, And do not return there, But water the earth, And make it bring forth and bud, That it may give seed to the sower And bread to the eater, (11) So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth; It shall not return to Me void, But it shall accomplish what I please, And it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it.

2 Timothy 3:16-17 | NIV (16) All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, (17) so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.

 Hebrews 4:12 | NIV (12) For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.

 Do not let the Word of God be an afterthought or the LAST RESORT! Make it the first thing you go to. 

2. Meditate in the Word of God.

Joshua 1:8 | AMP (8) This Book of the Law shall not depart out of your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, that you may observe and do according to all that is written in it. For then you shall make your way prosperous, and then you shall deal wisely and have good success.

 The Word of God shall not depart out of your mouth… To meditate means to mutter or speak to yourself.

 If you ever want to do anything great in life, if you ever want to amount to anything in life, take time to meditate in the Word of God. 

Psalms 1:1-3 | AMPC (1) BLESSED (HAPPY, fortunate, prosperous, and enviable) is the man who walks and lives not in the counsel of the ungodly [following their advice, their plans and purposes], nor stands [submissive and inactive] in the path where sinners walk, nor sits down [to relax and rest] where the scornful [and the mockers] gather.  (2)  But his delight and desire are in the law of the Lord, and on His law (the precepts, the instructions, the teachings of God) he habitually meditates (ponders and studies) by day and by night. (3) And he shall be like a tree firmly planted [and tended] by the streams of water, ready to bring forth its fruit in its season; its leaf also shall not fade or wither; and everything he does shall prosper [and come to maturity].

3. Practice the Word of God

We have many “talkers of the Word,” and even “rejoicers about the Word,” but there aren’t nearly as many “Doers of the Word.”

 James 1:22-25 | NKJV (22) But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. (23) For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man observing his natural face in a mirror; (24) for he observes himself, goes away, and immediately forgets what kind of man he was. (25) But he who looks into the perfect law of liberty and continues in it, and is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work, this one will be blessed in what he does.

Begin the practice being a doer of the Word by doing in all circumstances what the Word tells you to do.

 Here is a New Testament Example:

Philippians 4:6 | TPT (6) Don’t be pulled in different directions or worried about a thing. Be saturated in prayer throughout each day, offering your faith-filled requests before God with overflowing gratitude. Tell him every detail of your life,

 God does not ask us to do something that He does not give us the ability to do.

 Philippians 4:7 | TPT (7) then God’s wonderful peace that transcends human understanding, will make the answers known to you through Jesus Christ.

 We want verse 7 results without first doing what verse 6 says. If you do verse 6, you will get verse 7.

4. Instantly obey the voice of your spirit.

The human spirit has a voice. We call this our conscience. Sometimes we call it an intuition or an inner voice. The world calls it a hunch.

 As you give your newborn spirit the privilege of meditating on the Word of God, the Word becomes its source of information. Your spirit will become strong and the inward voice of your conscience, educated and fed by the Word will become a true guide.

 We always put the Word first and therefore our spirit becomes an authoritative guide. This is a process that takes time to learn. 

5. Spend time praying in other tongues.

 1 Corinthians 14:2 | AMPC (2) For one who speaks in an [unknown] tongue speaks not to men but to God, for no one understands or catches his meaning, because in the [Holy] Spirit he utters secret truths and hidden things [not obvious to the understanding]. 

• • • When you pray in other tongues, you are speaking directly to God – the Father of spirits.

1 Corinthians 14:14 | AMPC  (14) For if I pray in an [unknown] tongue, my spirit [by the Holy Spirit within me] prays, but my mind is unproductive [it bears no fruit and helps nobody].

• • • Praying in other tongues causes us to become more spirit-conscious.
    • When you pray in other tongues, your mind grows quiet –  because you are not praying out of your mind. 

2 Corinthians 13:14 | MSG (14) The amazing grace of the Master, Jesus Christ, the extravagant love of God, the intimate friendship of the Holy Spirit, be with all of you.

1 Corinthians 12:1 | NKJV (1) Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I do not want you to be ignorant:

The word “gifts” was added by the translators. This verse actually says, 

1 Corinthians 12:1 | BBE (1) But about the things of the spirit, my brothers, it is not right for you to be without teaching.

How Does the Holy Spirit Lead Me?

1. The written Word of God

2. God will lead you first and foremost through the inward witness.

Romans 8:16 | NKJV (16) The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God,

3. The third way the Holy Spirit will lead you is through the inward voice or the voice of your recreated human spirit.

Sometimes we call this our conscience. 

Your conscience is the voice of your spirit and it is your conscience that will relate to your mind what the Spirit of God is saying to you in your heart.

Romans 9:1-2 | NKJV (1) I tell the truth in Christ, I am not lying, my conscience also bearing me witness in the Holy Spirit, (2) that I have great sorrow and continual grief in my heart.

Paul, speaking of the burden he felt for the Jews, said that his conscience bears witness by the Holy Spirit that this was the truth.

Let’s look at the working of our conscience.

• • • The Holy Spirit does not convict us of sin. It is our spirit that convicts us of sin in our lives.

1 John 3:20-21 | GNB (20) If our conscience condemns us, we know that God is greater than our conscience and that he knows everything. (21) And so, my dear friends, if our conscience does not condemn us, we have courage in God’s presence.

• • • The Holy Spirit convicts the world of sin.

John 16:7-9 | NLT (7) But in fact, it is best for you that I go away, because if I don’t, the Advocate won’t come. If I do go away, then I will send Him to you. (8) And when He comes, He will convict the world of its sin, and of God’s righteousness, and of the coming judgment. (9) The world’s sin is that it refuses to believe in Me.

• • • It is very important that we remain tenderhearted especially in the things of God.

1 Timothy 4:1-2 | NIV (1) The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons.  (2)  Such teachings come through hypocritical liars, whose consciences have been seared as with a hot iron. (lost all feeling)

1 Timothy 4:2 | TPT  …and their consciences won’t bother them at all!

Unless you keep a tender conscience, spiritual things will become indistinct to you.

We must realize that our physical bodies have a voice called your senses and our soul has a voice called our emotions. 

There will be times when we must discern which is being led by the Spirit of God and then ignore the others.

4. The fourth way that God will lead you is by the voice of the Holy Spirit.

This way is the more authoritative voice of the Holy Spirit versus the still small voice of your spirit. This can almost seem like it is audible but it is not. It is the Holy Spirit in your spirit speaking to you. 

Acts 10:19-21 NKJV While Peter thought about the vision, the Spirit said to him, “Behold, three men are seeking you. (20) Arise therefore, go down and go with them, doubting nothing; for I have sent them.” (21) Then Peter went down to the men who had been sent to him from Cornelius, and said, “Yes, I am he whom you seek. For what reason have you come?”

1 Thessalonians 5:21 AMP (21) But test and prove all things [until you can recognize] what is good; [to that] hold fast.

Always remember that the Bible teaches that the Spirit of God and the Word of God agree. 

Anytime that the Spirit of God speaks to you, it will always be in line with the Word.

We are not to seek voices. We should not follow voices. WE SHOULD FOLLOW THE WORD OF GOD.

God can lead you through outside circumstances but this must always line up with the Word of God AND confirm something that you already have in your heart. This would also apply to dreams or personal prophecies. They must always line up with the written Word of God AND confirm something that God has already ministered to your heart.

If it does not confirm something that you already have in your heart, then you put it on “the back burner” and roll it over to the Lord and not get disturbed about it.

Learn to trust the Holy Spirit in you. He is big enough to reveal to you exactly what you need to know – clearly and concisely.

Next week: How to Become More Spiritually Sensitive

2 Corinthians 13:14 | MSG (14) The amazing grace of the Master, Jesus Christ, the extravagant love of God, the intimate friendship of the Holy Spirit, be with all of you.

1 Corinthians 12:1 | NKJV (1) Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I do not want you to be ignorant:

The word “gifts” was added by the translators. This verse actually says, 

1 Corinthians 12:1 | BBE (1) But about the things of the spirit, my brothers, it is not right for you to be without teaching.

Ephesians 5:15-17 | AMP (15) Look carefully then how you walk! Live purposefully and worthily and accurately, not as the unwise and witless, but as wise (sensible, intelligent people), (16) Making the very most of the time [buying up each opportunity], because the days are evil. (17) Therefore do not be vague and thoughtless and foolish, but understanding and firmly grasping what the will of the Lord is.

 If the Lord through the Apostle Paul is telling us to understand what the will of God is, then it must be possible for us to know the will of God for our lives.

 Colossians 1:9 | MSG (9) Be assured that from the first day   we heard of you, we haven’t stopped praying for you, asking God to give you wise minds and spirits attuned to his will, and so acquire a thorough understanding of the ways in which God works.

 The will of God for us can be divided into two major categories: 

1. The general will of God that is made known unto us by His Word. 

For instance, we do not have to pray about people getting saved or not. The Bible tells us it is God’s will for all to be saved.

1 Timothy 2: 4 | NKJV (4) (God) who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.

I do not have to pray about whether to marry someone who is not saved. The Bible tells me not to.

2 Corinthians 6:14 | NIV (14) Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness?

2. The specific will of God for our individual lives

In the things that God has not given us direction for in His Word, He wants us to learn how to follow the leading of the Holy Spirit.

Let’s establish seven things in this:

1. You are a spirit, you have a soul, and you live in a body.

1 Thessalonians 5:23 | NKJV (23) Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.

2. The spirit is made new when you are Born Again.

 2 Corinthians 5:17 | NLT (17) This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!

3. We present our bodies as a living sacrifice.

 Romans 12:1 | NLT (1) And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all He has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice–the kind He will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship Him.

4. We must renew our minds with the Word of God.

Romans 12:2 | NLT (2) Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.

5. God lives in you by the Holy Spirit in your spirit.

 1 John 4:15 | NKJV (15) Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in him, and he in God.

6. God will guide us, enlighten us, and lead us through our recreated human spirits.

Proverbs 20:27 | NIV (27) The human spirit is the lamp of the LORD that sheds light on one’s inmost being.

7. As a child of God, you have a right to be led by the Spirit of God.

 Romans 8:14 | NKJV (14) For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God.

How Does the Holy Spirit Lead Me?

The four primary ways that God will lead the Born-Again believer are:

1. The Written Word of God
2. The Inward Witness
3. The Inward Voice or Voice of Your Spirit
4. The Voice of the Holy Spirit

 

1. After the Word of God, God will lead you first and foremost through the inward witness.

Romans 8:16 | NKJV (16) The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God,

1 John 5:10 | NKJV (10) He who believes in the Son of God has the witness in himself…

 His Spirit, God’s Spirit bears witness with our spirits that we are His children. There is a knowing that is right down on the inside of you. 

If He will bear witness in our spirits about being Born Again, the most important decision that we could have possibly made, then surely, He will bear witness about all the decisions in our lives.

• He will warn you of impending danger or harm in the same way.

 Acts 27:9-11 | NKJV (9) Now when much time had been spent, and sailing was now dangerous because the Fast was already over, Paul advised them, (10) saying, “Men, I perceive that this voyage will end with disaster and much loss, not only of the cargo and ship, but also our lives.” (11) Nevertheless the centurion was more persuaded by the helmsman and the owner of the ship than by the things spoken by Paul.

Paul had a knowing that the trip would not go well because the Spirit of God bore witness to that in his spirit.

• He will confirm that something is good, proper and in His will by a peace in your spirit.

Colossians 3:15 | AMP (15) And let the peace (soul harmony which comes) from Christ rule (act as umpire continually) in your hearts [deciding and settling with finality all questions that arise in your minds, in that peaceful state] to which as [members of Christ’s] one  body you were also called [to live]. And be thankful (appreciative), [giving praise to God always].

 God will lead you in this way as you pursue a “peaceful knowing” in your spirit.

2 Corinthians 13:14 | MSG (14) The amazing grace of the Master, Jesus Christ, the extravagant love of God, the intimate friendship of the Holy Spirit, be with all of you.

1 Corinthians 12:1 | NKJV (1) Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I do not want you to be ignorant:

The word “gifts” was added by the translators. This verse actually says,

1 Corinthians 12:1 | BBE (1) But about the things of the spirit, my brothers, it is not right for you to be without teaching.

How to Receive the Baptism of the Holy Spirit

Acts 1:8 | NKJV (8) But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”

Acts 2:1-4 | NKJV (1) When the Day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. (2) And suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. (3) Then there appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them. (4) And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.

We want to talk about how to receive the Baptism of the Holy Spirit with the evidence of speaking in other tongues. This will also help us as believers to learn how to effectively minister the Baptism of the Holy Spirit.

1. This ministry of the Holy Spirit is a separate experience after being Born Again.

Acts 8:5-8 | NKJV (5) Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria and preached Christ to them. (6) And the multitudes with one accord heeded the things spoken by Philip, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did. (7) For unclean spirits, crying with a loud voice, came out of many who were possessed; and many who were paralyzed and lame were healed. (8) And there was great joy in that city.

Acts 8:14-17 | NKJV (14) Now when the apostles who were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent Peter and John to them, (15) who, when they had come down, prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit. (16) For as yet He had fallen upon none of them. They had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. (17) Then they laid hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit.

2. God has already given the Holy Spirit and we simply receive God’s free gift.

Acts 8:14-17 | NKJV (14) Now when the apostles who were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent Peter and John to them,  (15)  who, when they had come down, prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit.  (16)  For as yet He had fallen upon none of them. They had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.  (17)  Then they laid hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit.

Just like salvation, the Holy Spirit is a gift given to men and must be received.

3. The only requirement to being able to receive this experience is to be Born Again.

Acts 2:37-38 | NKJV (37) Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Men and brethren, what shall we do?” (38) Then Peter said to them, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.

We believe that people that are saved can go to heaven. If they are good enough to go to heaven, then they are good enough to have a little bit of heaven in them here on the earth.

Baby Christians, carnal Christians, and all Christians can and should be filled with the Holy Spirit. They can receive power that will help them. (Acts 1:8)

4. You do not need to fear receiving anything other than the Holy Spirit.

Luke 11:11-13 | NKJV (11) If a son asks for bread from any father among you, will he give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will he give him a serpent instead of a fish? (12) Or if he asks for an egg, will he offer him a scorpion? (13) If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him!”

Notice Jesus’ reference to the serpent and scorpion. Remember He had just said in Luke 10:19 that we have authority over serpents and scorpions. When you ask to receive the Holy Spirit that is exactly what you will get – the Holy Spirit.

5. When you receive, you yield to the Holy Spirit and you do the speaking.

The Holy Spirit is a gentleman, and He will never force you to do anything. Jesus said He leads and guides us.

Acts 2:4 | NKJV (4) And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.

Acts 10:44-46 | NKJV (44) While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit fell upon all those who heard the word. (46) For they heard them speak with tongues and magnify God…

Acts 19:6 | NKJV (6) And when Paul had laid hands on them, the Holy Spirit came upon them, and they spoke with tongues and prophesied.

1 Corinthians 14:18 | NKJV (18) I thank my God I speak with tongues more than you all;

6. When you pray and receive the Holy Spirit, open your mouth and be ready to use your mouth and vocal chords.

• • The Holy Spirit will give you the utterance but you must yield and give voice to that utterance. Anytime you ever speak with other tongues, it will definitely be you doing the talking.
  • He does not take over you or force you to speak.
  • The Holy Ghost does not speak in tongues – YOU DO!
  • Speaking in tongues is entirely you and it is entirely the Holy Spirit.

Try not to speak in your natural language but give voice and speak out whatever utterance is given by the Holy Spirit no matter what it may sound like to you.

Speak the utterance that you hear by faith and the more that you speak it forth, the more fluent it will become.

John 7:37-39 NKJV (37) On the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink. (38) He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.” (39) But this He spoke concerning the Spirit, whom those believing in Him would receive; for the Holy Spirit was not yet given, because Jesus was not yet glorified.

7. Tongues is the initial evidence that you have been filled with the Holy Spirit and that evidence is mostly for you.

 

2 Corinthians 13:14 | MSG (14) The amazing grace of the Master, Jesus Christ, the extravagant love of God, the intimate friendship of the Holy Spirit, be with all of you.

1 Corinthians 12:1 | NKJV (1) Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I do not want you to be ignorant:

The word “gifts” was added by the translators. This verse actually says,

1 Corinthians 12:1 | BBE (1) But about the things of the spirit, my brothers, it is not right for you to be without teaching.

Benefits of Praying In Other Tongues

• Tongues is primarily for a believer’s own personal, spiritual edification.

1 Corinthians 14:4a | AMPC (4) He who speaks in a [strange] tongue edifies and improves himself…

• • You cannot edify people unless you have first been edified.
• God has given us a divine means by which we can speak directly to Him supernaturally.
• Praying in other tongues is praying in line with God’s perfect will.
• Your weaknesses do not disqualify you from His help, they qualify you for His help.

More Benefits of Praying In Tongues

• Speaking in tongues helps us to stay aware of the Holy Spirit’s presence.

John 14:16 | TPT (16-17) And I will ask the Father and he will give you another Savior, the Holy Spirit of Truth, who will be to you a friend just like me—and he will never leave you. The world won’t receive him because they can’t see him or know him. But you will know him intimately, because he will make his home in you and will live inside you.

The ability to pray in other tongues proves the Holy Spirit’s abiding presence because one cannot pray in tongues unless the Spirit gives the utterance.

Acts 2:4 | NKJV (4) And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.

When we are more aware of His presence, we are less likely to yield to our flesh.

Romans 8:5 | AMPC (5) For those who are according to the flesh and are controlled by its unholy desires set their minds on and pursue those things which gratify the flesh, but those who are according to the Spirit and are controlled by the desires of the Spirit set their minds on and seek those things which gratify the [Holy] Spirit.

• Praying in other tongues makes us more aware of and sensitive to spiritual things.
• Praying in tongues will stimulate your faith.

Stimulate – encourage development and increase activity

Jude 1:20 | NKJV (20) But you, beloved, building yourselves up on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit,

Faith does not come by praying in the Spirit. It grows as we feed it on the Word of God and exercise our faith.

How does it stimulate our faith? The very act of praying in other tongues requires faith.

Our faith is activated because we must trust the Holy Spirit for the next utterance that we speak as we pray in other tongues.

• Praying in tongues gives spiritual refreshing.

Isaiah 28:11-12 | NKJV (11) For with stammering lips and another tongue He will speak to this people, (12) To whom He said, “This is the rest with which You may cause the weary to rest,” And, “This is the refreshing…”

There is a rest and refreshing that is available to us through praying in the Spirit. As we know, sometimes rest is what we need to get well of what is ailing or troubling us.

• Praying in tongues will help you get your tongue under control.

James 3:6-8 | NKJV (6) And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity. The tongue is so set among our members that it defiles the whole body, and sets on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire by hell.  (7) For every kind of beast and bird, of reptile and creature of the sea, is tamed and has been tamed by mankind.  (8) But no man can tame the tongue. It is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison.

James did not say that the tongue could not be tamed or brought under control. James said that no man can tame the tongue.

Some have trouble controlling the parts of our flesh that get us in trouble sexually, but actually God is more concerned about you taming the tongue because it can cause more damage. If you can control the tongue, you are able to get the other parts under control.

James 3:2 | NKJV (2) For we all stumble in many things. If anyone does not stumble in word, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle the whole body.

• Praying in tongues will aid you in worshipping, praising, and magnifying God.

Acts 10:45-46 NKJV And those of the circumcision who believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out on the Gentiles also. (46) For they heard them speak with tongues and magnify God…

The Greek word for “magnify” means to make great or enlarge.

By praying in the Spirit, we make God bigger in our thinking of Him. (God does not get bigger but He becomes bigger to us.)

Acts 10:46 | TPT (46) for they heard them speaking in supernaturally given languages and passionately praising God.

We need to develop a vocabulary of worship from the Word of God in our known tongue.

Worshipping in the Spirit is a powerful thing that God gives us because sometimes you run out of what to say in your known language.

This will cause us to become intimately aware of the presence of God on an ongoing basis.

Ephesians 5:18-19 NKJV (18) And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit, (19)  speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord,

 

Ephesians 4:9-13 | TPT (9) He “ascended” means that he returned to heaven, after he had first descended from the heights of heaven, even descending as far as the lowest parts of the earth.  (10)  The same one who descended is also the one who ascended above the heights of heaven, in order to begin the restoration and fulfillment of all things.  (11)  And he has appointed some with grace to be apostles, and some with grace to be prophets, and some with grace to be evangelists, and some with grace to be pastors, and some with grace to be teachers.  (12)  And their calling is to nurture and prepare all the holy believers to do their own works of ministry, and as they do this they will enlarge and build up the body of Christ.  (13)  These grace ministries will function until we all attain oneness in the faith, until we all experience the fullness of what it means to know the Son of God, and finally we become one perfect man with the full dimensions of spiritual maturity and fully developed in the abundance of Christ.

Part of my responsibilities as a pastor is the equipping of the saints so that they can do their own works of the ministry.

Because of this, it is important for me to begin to teach and equip believers for this purpose and I cannot do this by just covering “surface” truths from the Word. I must go into some deeper things.

2 Corinthians 13:14 | MSG (14) The amazing grace of the Master, Jesus Christ, the extravagant love of God, the intimate friendship of the Holy Spirit, be with all of you.

1 Corinthians 12:1 | NKJV (1) Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I do not want you to be ignorant:

The word “gifts” was added by the translators. This verse actually says,

1 Corinthians 12:1 | BBE (1) But about the things of the spirit, my brothers, it is not right for you to be without teaching.

The Spirit Within and the Spirit Upon

Jesus told us there are two distinct works of the Holy Spirit in the life of the believer. One is in the New Birth where He works in us, and the other is in the Baptism of the Holy Spirit when the Spirit comes upon us.

John 4:13-14 NKJV (13) Jesus answered and said to her, “Whoever drinks of this water will thirst again,  (14)  but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst. But the water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life.”

John 7:37-39 | NKJV (37) On the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink.  (38)  He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.”  (39)  But this He spoke concerning the Spirit, whom those believing in Him would receive; for the Holy Spirit was not yet given, because Jesus was not yet glorified.

Notice Jesus likened the work of the Holy Spirit to water in a well (New Birth) and water flowing like a river (the baptism of the Holy Spirit).

• • The water in the well is for the believer’s benefit.
  • The river flowing out of us is for the benefit of others.

The Baptism of the Holy Spirit is an additional dimension of the work that He does in our lives. But, it is the same Holy Spirit that came in us when we got Born Again.

What About Speaking in Tongues?

• The initial evidence of receiving the Baptism of the Holy Spirit, is speaking in other tongues.

Acts 2:1-4 | NKJV (1) When the Day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. (2) And suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. (3) Then there appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them. (4) And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.

Acts 10:44-46 | NKJV (44) While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit fell upon all those who heard the word. (45) And those of the circumcision who believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out on the Gentiles also. (46) For they heard them speak with tongues and magnify God. Then Peter answered,

Acts 19:6 | NKJV (6) And when Paul had laid hands on them, the Holy Spirit came upon them, and they spoke with tongues and prophesied.

Benefits of Praying In Tongues

• Tongues is primarily for a believer’s own personal, spiritual edification.

1 Corinthians 14:4 | NKJV (4) He who speaks in a tongue edifies himself, but he who prophesies edifies the church.

Jude 1:20 | NKJV (20) But you, beloved, building yourselves up on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit,

• You can’t edify people unless you have first been edified.
• God has given us this divine means by which we can speak directly to Him supernaturally.

1 Corinthians 14:2 | AMP (2) For one who speaks in an [unknown] tongue speaks not to men but to God, for no one understands or catches his meaning, because in the [Holy] Spirit he utters secret truths and hidden things [not obvious to the understanding].

• Praying in other tongues is praying in line with God’s perfect will.

Romans 8:26-27 NKJV (26) Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. (27) Now He who searches the hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because He makes intercession for the saints according to the will of God.

Underline or circle “helps” and “intercession”.

Helps – (sunantilambano) – three separate words which mean: The Holy Ghost in conjunction and partnership with us, becomes so enraged against whatever is causing us difficulties, He takes it personally upon Himself.

What – (ti) – the very little thing. It underscores that we don’t even know how to necessarily pray for the small things not to mention the larger issues in life. We are so limited in our view but He can see it ALL.

Ought (dei)– as the new situation requires and dictates, as the new problem demands.

Intercession – (huperentugchano) – this is the only time that this word is used in the entire New Testament.

This word paints the picture of someone who has come upon someone who has fallen into some kind of quandary. It would be as if someone has fallen into a deep cavern and is stuck. There is someone who immediately swings into action to rescue and deliver the one who is in trouble. It conveys the idea of a full scale rescue operation.

The 33 – Chilean mine accident that trapped the miners, three separate drilling teams, every Chilean government ministry, a dozen corporations and even NASA helped with the rescue. 10/13/2010 all 33 brought to the surface with no long-term physical effects and private donations covered 1/3 of the $20 million cost.

When we do not know how we should pray for that situation, the Holy Spirit swings into a full-scale rescue operation. But in order to do this, He falls into that place with you. Now you are no longer facing that situation alone, for the Holy Spirit has stepped into your dilemma and is initiating a rescue plan to get you out of that mess!

The Holy Spirit feels everything that you feel. He understands the complete inadequacy you are experiencing. He willingly joins you in your circumstances sharing your emotions and frustrations. Then He begins to put a supernatural plan of rescue into operation to get you out of that problem.

Romans 8:26-27 | TPT (26) And in a similar way, the Holy Spirit takes hold of us in our human frailty to empower us in our weakness. For example, at times we don’t even know how to pray, or know the best things to ask for. But the Holy Spirit rises up within us to super-intercede on our behalf, pleading to God with emotional sighs too deep for words.  (27)  God, the searcher of the heart, knows fully our longings, yet he also understands the desires of the Spirit, because the Holy Spirit passionately pleads before God for us, his holy ones, in perfect harmony with God’s plan and our destiny.

• Your weaknesses do not disqualify you from His help, they qualify you for His help.

2 Corinthians 13:14 | MSG (14) The amazing grace of the Master, Jesus Christ, the extravagant love of God, the intimate friendship of the Holy Spirit, be with all of you.

Having close relationships with other people is only part of God’s plan for our lives. He desires to be our most intimate friend.

Who is the Holy Spirit?

Genesis 1:2 | NKJV (2) The earth was without form, and void; and darkness was on the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters.

Ruwach – a wind, breath, a blast of breath.

John 6:63 | NIV (63) The Spirit gives life; the flesh counts for nothing. The words I have spoken to you–they are full of the Spirit and life.

Pneuma – a current of air, blast of breath, a strong breeze.

• The Holy Spirit is a person.

He is not an “it”.

John 14:16-17 | NKJV (16) And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever– (17) the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you.

• He is the Third Person in the Trinity.

Matthew 28:19 | NKJV (19) Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,

Matthew 3:16-17 | NKJV (16) When He had been baptized, Jesus came up immediately from the water; and behold, the heavens were opened to Him, and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting upon Him. (17) And suddenly a voice came from heaven, saying, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.”

• The Holy Spirit is the perfect gentleman.

The Holy Spirit will not force Himself upon anyone. He must be received. He will never override anyone’s will or power of choice.

Luke 11:11-13 | NKJV (11) If a son asks for bread from any father among you, will he give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will he give him a serpent instead of a fish? (12) Or if he asks for an egg, will he offer him a scorpion? (13) If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him!”

The Holy Spirit Within Us

1. The Holy Spirit causes us to be Born Again.

John 3:3-6 | NKJV (3) Jesus answered and said to him, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” (4) Nicodemus said to Him, “How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother’s womb and be born?” (5) Jesus answered, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. (6) That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.

2. The Holy Spirit enables us to have God’s help.

John 14:16 | NKJV (16) And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever—

Helper (Greek: parakletos) – one called alongside to help and offer aid.

John 14:16 | AMP (16) And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Comforter (Counselor, Helper, Intercessor, Advocate, Strengthener, and Standby), that He may remain with you forever—

John 14:26a | NKJV (26) But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name…

3. The Holy Spirit enables us to develop Christ-like character.

2 Corinthians 3:17-18 | NLT (17) For the Lord is the Spirit, and wherever the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. (18) So all of us who have had that veil removed can see and reflect the glory of the Lord. And the Lord–who is the Spirit–makes us more and more like Him as we are changed into His glorious image.

Galatians 5:22-23 | NLT (22) But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, (23) gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!

4. The Holy Spirit wants to be our guide.

Romans 8:14 | NIV (14) For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God.

Romans 8:14 | TPT  (14) The mature children of God are those who are moved by the impulses of the Holy Spirit.

5. The Holy Spirit wants to teach us.

John 14:26 | NKJV (26) But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you.

John 16:13 | NKJV (13) However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come.

The Holy Spirit Upon Us

1. The Holy Spirit equips us with His power.

Acts 1:8 | AMP (8) But you shall receive power (ability, efficiency, and might) when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you shall be My witnesses in Jerusalem and all Judea and Samaria and to the ends (the very bounds) of the earth.

2. The Holy Spirit wants to manifest Himself through us.

1 Corinthians 12:4-11 | NKJV (4) There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. (5) There are differences of ministries, but the same Lord. (6) And there are diversities of activities, but it is the same God who works all in all. (7) But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all: (8) for to one is given the word of wisdom through the Spirit, to another the word of knowledge through the same Spirit, (9) to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healings by the same Spirit, (10) to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another discerning of spirits, to another different kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues. (11) But one and the same Spirit works all these things, distributing to each one individually as He wills.