Holy Spirit Devotional

Pentecost Sunday is almost here. It is an important date on the church calendar. However, this is much more than just an annual reminder – the Holy Spirit is necessary dailyfor a successful Christian life.

Some of you who read this have gone through all the previous nine studies. If you just caught this last little devotional, go back over the previous ones and meditate on the role of the Holy Spirit in our lives and in the world. The Holy Spirit works with us, in us and through us.

I close this teaching by answering a few more commonly asked questions:

Paul said, ”do all speak in tongues?” Is speaking in tongues only for certain chosen ones?

There are ”different kinds of tongues”. Whenever you read about speaking in tongues, ask yourself, which kind of tongues does this Scripture refer to; a message in tongues, a tongue that needs to be interpreted, singing in tongues, tongues as a prayer language or tongues as an expression of having received the baptism of the Holy Spirit?

It is true that not all give a message in tongues with interpretation, any more than all prophesy. The kind of speaking in tongues that is associated with the receiving of the baptism of the Holy Spirit can and should be experienced by everyone. How can I be so sure? The Bible makes it clear that what the first disciples experienced was not for them only, but ”to all who are afar off, as many as the Lord our God will call.” The record is clear that on the day of Pentecost they were all speaking in tongues. If some were to be excluded, isn’t it is strange that no one was excluded on the day of Pentecost. I believe that whatever they received is for us today.

How can I receive the baptism of the Spirit?

First, recognize that it is free, entirely by the grace of God. The Bible clearly promises this is for every believer, as many as God has called. Second, ask Jesus to baptize you in the Holy Spirit, because this baptism is something personal between you and Jesus Christ. Don’t struggle, just be still and worship Christ, and you may suddenly find unknown words come inside of you. Speak them out. Let the words flow freely.

The baptism of the Spirit is not about giving you an overwhelming sensation of how great the Holy Spirit is, but rather it is all about seeing how great Jesus is. [Suggested Bible reading: Acts 10:44 – 48, Matthew 3:11].

What can I expect after I receive the baptism of the Spirit?

Increased boldness, supernatural happenings in your life, a greater love for Jesus and a greater love for people are some of the common changes. Most of all, you will have a greater awareness that Christ lives in you and when you share the gospel with others, you will be keenly aware that you are not alone- Christ works with you, in you and through you. [Suggested Bible reading: Acts 1:8].

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