Pastor Stephen Gibson
April 2022
What is the most underused reservoir of power in our world today? Wind? Fire? Water? Oil? Something else?
Luke 1:17 gives us one answer. It describes the ministry of John the Baptist, as a life marked by the spirit and power. We learn from verse 15 that even from birth John was to be filled with the Holy Ghost or Holy Spirit. So could we say there is a link between the Holy Spirit and power? (See also Acts 1:8 …you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes…)
How was that Spirit-filling demonstrated in John’s life? The clearest evidence was that through his ministry, people turned to the Lord (v. 16). Of course he was only the instrument used by the Holy Spirit, yet the turning of hearts is not an easy job. How successful have you been at it?
How do you turn hearts? That judge who is convinced you are guilty, that spouse who is committed to being contrary, that teenager who is sure you are a hindrance to their happiness, how do you turn those hearts?
Isn’t that Holy Spirit territory? It’s no accident that we think of symbols of the Holy Spirit as sources of power: wind, fire, water, oil.
When the Holy Spirit came in a mighty way on the day of Pentecost in Acts chapter two, there was the sound of a mighty rushing wind, and the appearance of tongues of fire on those assembled (vs. 2-3). They were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak. Most notably, Peter preached a convicting message. He said God’s Spirit was being poured out as had been foretold by Joel. People listened and turned to the Lord. Three thousand were baptized that day (v. 41). Signs and wonders were wrought in the days after.
Would it be fair to use the word ‘power’ to describe Peter’s ministry that day? And the days that followed? Could we use the same word to describe Jesus’ ministry? He as well was one filled with the Holy Spirit.
So back to our first question. Could we say that the Holy Spirit is the most underutilized reservoir of power in the world today? Would you be interested in tapping into that power grid? Getting connected is free. How did those believers in Acts 2 prepare to receive the Holy Spirit? As we read in chapter one, we discover they were characterized as united in prayer and asking (v. 14). The Holy Spirit comes by invitation. Not unlike the picture Jesus paints of the Divine Salesman standing at the door knocking (Revelation 3:20). It remains up to the occupant to decide whether to open the door.
If you are open to receiving a dose of power sufficient to turn hearts, including yours, put asking for the Holy Spirit high on your priority list. And brace for the wind or fire or even the still small voice that may follow.