Acts 2:1-4
1 When the Day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. 2 And suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. 3 Then there appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them. 4 And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.
Names are very important in Scripture. A name often represents the nature, character, attributes, and destiny of a person. God’s name Yahweh, for example, points to the fact that he is the self-existent. Yahweh means “I am who I am” or “I will be who I will be.” The name “Jesus” means “Yahweh is Salvation” and points to the Lord’s role as the Savior of humankind. The title “Christ” reveals that Jesus is the Anointed Messiah. Other names and titles of God reveal various aspects of his Person and Work.
The Holy Spirit is the Member of the Godhead who indwells believers and helps us in every area of our lives. The Bible calls him the Paraklete, which is often translated as Comforter, Counselor, Helper, or Advocate. In the above passage, the Holy Spirit is manifest in a manner represented by two emblems: wind and fire. At various places in the Old and New Testaments, the Spirit also is characterized as a Dove, as Dew, as Rivers, and as Oil. All these images give us valuable insights into the ministry of the third Member of the Trinity.
A wind removes what is stale and can also bring comfort. A breath, which is a type of wind, brings life. A fire purifies and can spread rather quickly. A dove is a clean bird and often represents purity and peace. Dew is normally associated with the morning (i.e., new beginnings after a dark night of despair). Rivers quench thirst and bring refreshment. Finally, oil provides fuel and revitalizes cracked places. The Holy Spirit is like all these emblems. He cleanses, enables, invigorates, restores, and refreshes. He imparts the very life of God into our spirits.
My challenge to you is to welcome the fullness of the Holy Spirit's power. May he refresh, energize, and guide you throughout the day. God bless you.
In Christ,
Wilfred Graves Jr.
www.wilfredgraves.org
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