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(John 20:22) “...Receive the Holy Spirit."
Let's continue the series with the next theme...
"I don't know if I've ever received Him..."
I have met many people who say that they don't believe they have ever received the Holy Spirit. Here are just 'some' of the reasons they gave:
- Lack of Emotional Experience: Expecting a dramatic or emotional encounter and not experiencing it. [Seeking emotional experiences indulges the flesh and should be firmly avoided! Scripture frequently highlights that the Holy Spirit's presence isn't always marked by dramatic signs or intense emotions; instead, the Spirit often operates in subtle ways. For instance, 1 Kings 19:11, where Elijah encounters GOD not in the wind, earthquake, or fire, but in a gentle whisper. Also, Galatians 5:22, where the fruits of the Spirit are listed like love, joy, and peace. These are never invasive but rather quiet and subtle. We should always rely on our 'relationship' with the Holy Spirit to govern our feelings.]
- Comparisons: Comparing their experience to others who describe vivid spiritual encounters. [This again just indulges the flesh and should be firmly avoided! Scripture addresses the dangers of comparison in spiritual matters. In 1 Corinthians 12:4, Paul highlights the diversity of spiritual gifts, emphasising the wide array of spiritual experiences. Additionally, 2 Corinthians 10:12 warns against the 'foolishness' of comparing ourselves with others, indicating that such actions lack wisdom. We should always rely on our 'relationship' with the Holy Spirit to govern our feelings.]
- Unresolved Doubts: Struggling with doubts about faith or spiritual beliefs. [Scripture actually acknowledges that doubt is a part of faith. In Mark 9:24 we see a man 'coming to Jesus' and asking him to help his unbelief. To me, this shows that doubt can initially coexist with faith. Also, James 1:5 encourages asking GOD for Wisdom without doubting. This surely recognises that doubt is a common human experience. Once again, until 'relationship' with the Holy Spirit drowns it out!
- Lack of Confirmation: Seeking external signs that never appear. [This is addressed in Scripture, which emphasises faith beyond visible evidence. In John 20:29, Jesus tells Thomas, "Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed." Similarly, in Matthew 12:39, Jesus says, "An evil and adulterous generation seeks for a sign." We should focus on trusting the Holy Spirit to fulfil His will through us, rather than seeking immediate validation regarding timing, method, and place. Contentment should come from our 'relationship' with the Holy Spirit, guiding both outcomes and emotions.
I've aimed to demonstrate that these passages imply faith doesn't always depend on visible signs or confirmation, and that feelings can be deeply personal and vary greatly among individuals.
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Let us pray, Heavenly Father, grant me the heart of a child, content to follow the Holy Spirit without needing to understand the 'why,' 'where,' or 'how.' Help me trust in His guidance completely, knowing that His path is always the best for me." Amen!
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