The Purpose of the Holy Spirit
BY PASTOR CHRIS OTTS
THE STRENGTH OF GOD’S PRESENCE
Have you ever had one of those weeks where you end up laughing just to keep from crying? I recently had one of those weeks when, one night, we had an outlet catch on fire, then the next morning woke up to water leaking through our ceiling. Then, to make it even funnier, our dog went into heat that afternoon.
What I have learned over my years walking with God is that life is like this. The enemy wants to use our momentary troubles to sow seeds of discouragement, doubt, and distraction to keep us from trusting God. In times of chaos, we must pray for God's presence to wash over us and guide us, just as He poured out His Spirit at Pentecost.
WHO IS THE HOLY SPIRIT?
The Holy Spirit is often referred to as the third person of the Trinity. The Doctrine of the Trinity teaches us that there is only one God who exists as three distinct persons – the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Each person of the Trinity is fully God and equally God, and they are distinct from one another in their relationships.
The Holy Spirit is not a lesser entity outside of God or a part of God. He is fully, completely, and equally God.
As believers, we experience the Holy Spirit in three main ways: He seals, reveals, and fills us.
THE HOLY SPIRIT SEALS
When we put our faith in Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit seals our souls as redeemed and reconciled to God, marking us as His own possession (Ephesians 1:13-14). This seal allows us to live free in the grace of God from the bondage of sin and from trying to prove our righteousness through our own actions.
THE HOLY SPIRIT REVEALS
The Holy Spirit also reveals the Truth to us, helping us know God, understand Scripture, and be convicted of sin (John 16:7-14). As the Spirit of Truth, the Holy Spirit guides us in discovering what is true about God's nature, His Kingdom, and our identity as believers.
THE HOLY SPIRIT FILLS
Lastly, the Holy Spirit fills us, empowering us to function in the intended purpose of God for our lives. Just like a car without an engine cannot drive, we cannot fulfill our God-given purpose without being filled with the Holy Spirit. We need to be filled not just once, but continually, to live out the life God has called us to.
THE HOLY SPIRIT FILLS
In Acts 2, we read about the Holy Spirit being poured out at Pentecost, filling the disciples with power and enabling them to speak in other languages. This transformative event marked the beginning of the Church and the empowerment of believers to be witnesses for Christ throughout the world.
What might we need to work through as we wait for a fresh touch from God? How can the Holy Spirit's presence in our lives bring strength and purpose in times of chaos and uncertainty?
No matter what challenges we face, we can find comfort and guidance in the Holy Spirit. As we lean into His presence, we will discover the strength to overcome adversity and the purpose to live out God's calling.
YOUR NEXT STEP
Are you seeking a deeper connection with God? Consider downloading the “28 Chapters in 28 Days” Acts reading plan available HERE on the Bible app. As you immerse yourself in Scripture, invite the Holy Spirit to seal, reveal, and fill you with His presence and purpose.