‘However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come.’ -- John 16:13
What distinguishes a person from a thing? For example, what’s the difference between a person and a chair? Some might say, “Well, a person has life.” But a tree has life, and it’s not a person. A cockroach is alive, but it’s not a person. So what makes someone a person? The answer is a person has a personality. Every single person releases or exhibits the marks of a personality. That means a person has a soul, which is comprised of a mind, a will, and emotions. In fact, that’s how we know beyond any doubt that the Holy Spirit is a person. The Bible tells us that God has a mind, a will, and emotions, and the Holy Spirit is God (Romans 8:27). He’s not just some power you use. He thinks, He feels, and He has desires—He is a person.
It’s very important that you have this knowledge because if you don’t see the Holy Spirit as a Person, you will never develop a relationship with Him. It’s not possible to develop a personal relationship with a thing. When you are in relationship with the Holy Spirit, since He knows God’s will for your life, He can reveal it to you. He guides you into truth, and He uses you to help and minister to other people.
Do you desire a personal, passionate, vital relationship with the Holy Spirit? He truly wants to be your best friend. Ask Him which areas of your life need His presence. Allow Him to walk beside you today, giving you insight and wisdom that only He can give.
PRAYER
Holy Spirit, thank You that You are a living person with whom I can develop a relationship. I want to know You as my best friend. As I go about my day, be with me and show me Your presence. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
FOR FURTHER STUDY
- Luke 11:13; John 14:15–17; 2 Corinthians 3:17; 1 Thessalonians 1:5; 1 John 5:8
Taken from The God I Never Knew, a Gateway devotion.
