The Spirit at Rest

On the day of Pentecost, the Holy Spirit fell suddenly–dramatically–with life-changing force and “a noise like a violent rushing wind.”

Then the disciples saw the visible impact of the Spirit as “there appeared to them tongues as of fire distributing themselves.” Next, these tongues of fire “rested on each one of them.” The Bible uses a Greek word that means to sit down. In the midst of this violent display of God’s power, here was a picture of rest and relationship. Why? Because the Holy Spirit was not merely a powerful force.

Yes, He could intervene in supernatural ways. His power could open the eyes of the blind or part the waters of the sea. But He also comes to rest, to be comfortable with us, and to be a welcome guest.

When the Spirit fell, it was not just a momentous event–He came in a personal way. The Spirit was there, not only for the church, but for everyone. He was there for each man and woman, as an individual. He was there to establish relationship, to supply what each person needed, and to enable each person to do what God had called him or her to do.

We’re given this relational insight through Paul’s description of peace and gentleness among the fruits of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23).

The Spirit is with us all the time–in the storms and in the stillness of the night…when we need guidance and miracles, and when we need peace and rest.

That same Spirit is with you, right now. Welcome Him. Learn to hear His voice, and allow Him to speak to you, to change your life, and to fill you with God’s power and joy–and His goodness, kindness, self-control, faithfulness, love, gentleness, patience, and peace.