The Wind and Fire of Pentecost

Wind and Fire

      Not long after the resurrection, Christ ascended to the Father and sent the Spirit in His place. Why? To be our Helper and to lead us into all Truth! (John 14:16, John 16:13)

This is what Charles Spurgeon said about the Holy Spirit:
      "Now that we have the Holy Spirit from Christ as our inner life, the Holy Spirit comes upon us with the intent to use us in blessing others, and this is the manner of His visitation - He comes as the wind that carries the words we speak, as fire that burns a way for the truth we utter. Our words are now full of life and flame; they are borne by the breath of the Spirit, and they fall like fire-flakes and set the souls of men blazing with desire after God."

      He goes on to say, "If the Holy Spirit shall rest upon us to qualify us for service, it shall be in this manner - not merely of life for ourselves but of fiery energy in dealing with others."

Are you dealing with "others?"

      I was feeling overwhelmed with "others" today, which was a reminder that I was dealing with them in my own strength. Christ has sent the Holy Spirit "wind and fire" into our lives...His words, His power and strength.

      Let's pray as Charles did so long ago, "Come on us even now, O rushing mighty wind and tongue of fire, for the world has great need. It lies stagnant in dreadful night and needs the flaming torch of truth. There is neither health nor light for this world but from You, O blessed Spirit; come, then, upon it through Your people."

Can you feel the wind blowing? Do you feel the flame?

      And suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. Then there appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance. - Acts 2:3-4 NKJV