Devotion: "Are You Afraid of the Holy Spirit?"
Scripture:
“Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.” — Hebrews 13:8 (KJV)
Personal Reflection
If Jesus is the same today as He was when He walked this earth, then the Holy Spirit—who empowered His earthly ministry—is likewise still active and powerful. Yet, for many believers and churches, the Holy Spirit is a theological concept rather than a living, divine Presence. Why? Because abuse, extremes, or unexplainable events have made people afraid. We want predictability, order, control. The Holy Spirit doesn't always fit into our boxed-up plans.
But think about it—if the enemy can get us to fear the very One sent to empower us, isn’t that a brilliant tactic? Satan isn’t afraid of eloquent sermons, padded pews, or five-year strategic plans. He’s afraid of a Spirit-filled, Spirit-led church. The Holy Spirit is not chaos; He brings power, truth, conviction, healing, and life. He glorifies Christ, convicts sinners, strengthens believers, and gives gifts for ministry. Without Him, we are running on fumes.
Your personal testimony may not include fire falling from heaven, but if you've truly seen God move in your life or in your church—why hide it? Why be ashamed of divine interruptions? Like the testimony shared above, are you more concerned with fitting in, or with being faithful?
Contemplation
Am I afraid of the Holy Spirit?
Have I allowed past experiences—or the fear of man—to silence the Spirit’s work in my life?
If the Holy Spirit wanted to “interrupt” my plans today, would I allow Him to?
We say Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Then let us live like it. Let us make room for the Spirit of Jesus to move, even if it’s uncomfortable, unpredictable, or untraditional.
The early church didn’t grow by schedules and scripts—they grew because they were filled and led by the Holy Spirit. He was their power. He must be ours too.
Prayer
Father,
Forgive me for the times I have quenched or ignored Your Spirit. I confess that fear, pride, or tradition may have made me hesitant to surrender to the full working of the Holy Spirit. But You are the same God today that You were in the days of Pentecost. The same Jesus who healed the sick, raised the dead, and cast out demons still reigns today—and Your Spirit still empowers Your people.
Help me to walk in courage and sensitivity to Your presence. Teach me not to fear Your Spirit, but to welcome Him. May my life and church be places where the Spirit is free to move, lead, and glorify Christ.
Interrupt my plans, Lord, if that’s what it takes for You to have Your way.
In Jesus' name,
Amen.
Today’s Challenge
Invite the Holy Spirit into your day in a fresh way.
Say aloud: “Holy Spirit, I welcome You to interrupt my day. I trust You.”
Then watch—He may just show up in ways you didn’t expect.
Are you ready to be interrupted?
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