In Touch - Aug. 18, 2006

In Touch Daily Devotional 
by Dr. Charles Stanley

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Friday August 18, 2006

The Holy Spirit Today

John 3:3-8

 

The Holy Spirit, the promise of the Father, arrived at Pentecost but was not new to mankind. Scripture tells us that He was present from the very beginning (Genesis 1:2) along with the Father and the Son (Colossians 1:16). He was also evident at various times during Israel’s history. To appreciate the Holy Spirit’s presence, let’s look at His interaction with man.

 

In Old Testament days, the Spirit of God did not interact with the nation as a whole. Instead, He came upon individuals for a specific task. A master craftsman received the Spirit in order to build the first tabernacle (Exodus 31:1-5). Seventy elders working as administrators were given the Spirit (Numbers 11:16-17). Mighty warriors such as Gideon (Judges 6:34) and Samson (Judges 13:25) and leaders like Moses and David also received the Spirit’s presence (1 Samuel 16:13).

 

Today, by indwelling every true believer, the Holy Spirit works through the entire body of Christ. His presence with each one of us is permanent, whereas before the church age, He would not necessarily remain with a person (Psalm 51:11).

 

In the gospel accounts, the Spirit continued to operate as He had during Old Testament times. He came upon individuals for a certain reason and length of time. We see Him active in the life of Jesus’ mother Mary, and John the Baptist’s parents, Zacharias and Elizabeth.

 

Once Jesus entered heaven, the Spirit began a new work which continues today. Have you thanked God recently for sending His comforting, teaching, and guiding Spirit to live within you?

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