August 27 -- "When the Spirit Enters"

 Today's Reading: Ezekiel 2 and 3

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In today’s verse, the prophet Ezekiel reveals a powerful and private moment in his life. The moment he was called by God and the Holy Spirit entered into him, empowering him to boldly speak out the messages he hears from God  As the Holy Spirit entered him, Ezekiel gained the courage to share the messages from above, even if others didn't want to hear them (verse 7!). We too can tap into the power of the Holy Spirit for guidance and strength to fulfill our divine purpose.

How can you know when the Holy Spirit has entered you? While everyone's experience may be different, the Bible describes several signs of the Holy Spirit in your life. These include:

Peaceful Assurance: An inner confidence and peace that surpasses understanding (Philippians 4:7). Spiritual Awakening: A renewed appreciation for Scripture and a deep desire to know God more intimately (Ephesians 1:18). Empowerment: Courage, strength, and boldness to serve others and share our faith (Acts 1:8). Fruit of the Spirit: Exhibiting qualities like love, joy, peace, patience, and kindness in our lives (Galatians 5:22-23). Receipt of Spiritual Gifts: Receiving abilities such as prophecy, healing, teaching, service, or tongues to edify others and build up the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:4-6). Christlikeness: Becoming more like Jesus through a transformed character (2 Corinthians 3:18).

The famous preacher, Charles Spurgeon, once wrote, "The clearest evidence of the Spirit's presence is not in extraordinary gifts or experiences, but in the transformed character of a person, making them more and more like Jesus." As we grow into Christlikeness by the Holy Spirit’s power, we become more loving, patient, forgiving, compassionate, and humble.

Remember, these signs of the Spirit in your life aren't always dramatic or attention-grabbing; they can be subtle yet profound changes in our lives. As you seek the Holy Spirit's infilling, be open to experiencing these manifestations in your own unique way.

Today, may the Holy Spirit's presence fill you with peaceful assurance, spiritual awakening, empowering strength, godly fruit, spiritual gifts, and Christlike character.