Ezekiel 36:27 – ‘…I will put My Spirit within you and bring it about that you walk in My statutes, and are careful and follow My ordinances.’ John 16:13 – ‘…when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth…’ Galatians 5:22-23 – ‘…the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control…’
With just over a month before Christmas, my kids are already anticipating what gifts may come. They have given their mom and I certain ideas of things they would like, and now they are excited at the possibilities, with each new wrapped gift that goes under the tree. This season reminds me of the importance of having proper expectations so as not to be disillusioned or disappointed.
In my years growing up in the church, I have seen many different ideas as to what to expect from the Holy Spirit. I have often found people wanting to make the Holy Spirit a mysterious thing. I meet people who will give the impression they have a unique connection to God that the average Christian does not. It is important that we let the Scriptures, God’s inspired Word, guide our expectations for the Holy Spirit’s work in the Christian’s life so as not to be disillusioned or disappointed.
More than a euphoric experience, the Holy Spirit comes to give us new desires and power to walk in God’s righteous standards. He comes to guide us into God’s truth and checks us when we get out of step with His character. Above all else, the Holy Spirit fills us with God’s love so that we are compelled to use the gifts He has given us to serve the people around us.
Father in heaven, I want to honor Your name. I thank you for the Holy Spirit to help me do Your will each day. Holy Spirit help me to see and meet the needs around me today in Jesus’ name, Amen.