Charles F. Stanley - Relying on the Holy Spirit: Discover Who He Is and How He Works

As Christians, we have each had an experience with the Holy Spiritotherwise, we wouldnt be Christians. But many believers today have been taught erroneously about the Holy Spirit. I know people who have taken one verse out of the Bible and built an entire theology of the Holy Spirit on it. For a proper understanding of who the Holy Spirit is and how He works in our lives, we must have the whole counsel of Gods Word on the subject.

As in all areas of study, we err if we base our believing on just one isolated concept. Truth in Gods Word is expressed repeatedly. Verses build on verses to create the whole meaning of Gods message to us. Our perspective is limited, and in error, unless we take in the whole of Gods truth. This is the goal of the study you are holding in your handsto explore what the Bible says about the Holy Spirit so we can have a fuller experience with Him.

This book can be used by you alone or by several people in a small-group study. At various times, you will be asked to relate to the material in one of the following four ways.

First, what new insights have you gained? Make notes about the insights you have. You may want to record them in your Bible or in a separate journal. As you reflect on your new understanding, you are likely to see how God has moved in your life.

Second, have you ever had a similar experience? You approach the Bible from your own unique background... your own particular set of understandings about the world that you bring with you when you open Gods Word. For this reason, it is important to consider how your experiences are shaping your understanding and allow yourself to be open to the truth that God reveals.

Third, how do you feel about the material? While you should not depend solely on your emotions as a gauge for your faith, it is important for you to be aware of them as you study a passage of Scripture and can freely express them to God. Sometimes, the Holy Spirit will use your emotions to compel you to look at your life in a different or challenging way.

Fourth, in what way do you feel challenged to respond or to act? Gods Word may inspire you or challenge you to take a particular action. Take this challenge seriously and find ways to move into it. If God reveals a particular need that He wants you to address, take that as His marching orders. God will empower you to do something with the challenge that He has just given you.

Start your Bible study sessions in prayer. Ask God to give you spiritual eyes to see and spiritual ears to hear. As you conclude your study, ask the Lord to seal what you have learned so you will not forget it. Ask Him to help you grow into the fullness of the nature and character of Christ Jesus.

I encourage you to keep the Bible at the center of your study. A genuine Bible study stays focused on Gods Word and promotes a growing faith and a closer walk with the Holy Spirit in each person who participates.