They were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and began to speak with other languages, as the Spirit gave them the ability to speak. Acts 2:4 WEB
The Holy Spirit is one of the three aspects of God. We have in the one true God, our heavenly Father, Jesus, the Son of God, and the Holy Spirit. Our Father is the godhead. Jesus is the Word of God and our Creator’s only begotten Son. Christ is the agent of creation. The Holy Spirit is the powerful Counselor that Jesus promised in John 14:16 as he says to his disciples, “I will pray to the Father, and he will give you another Counselor, that he may be with you forever. WEB”
The Spirit of God was present from the beginning. We read in Genesis 1:2, “Now the earth was formless and empty. Darkness was on the surface of the deep. God’s Spirit was hovering over the surface of the waters. WEB”
King David Received the Holy Spirit
Many Old Testament figures were given the Holy Spirit. David was famously led by the Spirit of God. We read in 1 Samuel 16:13, “Then Samuel took the horn of oil, and anointed him in the midst of his brethren: and the Spirit of the LORD came upon David from that day forward. So Samuel rose up, and went to Ramah. KJV”
Scholars debate what it means to have the Holy Spirit. We know from the words of Christ in the gospel of John that Christ’s believers receive the Spirit forever. But in David’s time, he worried that God’s Spirit might be taken from him as it was with Saul due to his attitudes and behavior. Aware of his sinful nature, David says in Psalm 51:11, “Don’t throw me from your presence, and don’t take your holy Spirit from me. WEB”
Indwelt by the Holy Spirit
Although followers of Christ are indwelt by the Holy Spirit permanently, the bible also indicates temporary manifestations of the same. For example, the Apostle Paul was uniquely filled with the Holy Spirit on several different occasions.
Those who are filled with temporary manifestations of the Holy Spirit experience miraculous events such as speaking in tongues which we read about in Acts 2:4 which says, “They were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and began to speak with other languages, as the Spirit gave them the ability to speak. WEB”
Prayer: “Father God, thank you for the Counselor that is your Holy Spirit. Thank you for helping me to better know your will. Guide me to serve your purpose. Help me to live a life that is pleasing to you. In Jesus’ name – Amen”
Yesterday’s Devotional: According to His Purpose
