Crisis ConvertedSample

Theme: The Life-Giving Spirit

Crisis Converted Then:

Throughout the Old Testament, God’s Spirit (ruach in the Hebrew) is his life-giving force that brings about his creative work. Ruach can also be translated as breath. In the desert region where the Israelites lived, plants would receive sporadic rain. In between the rains, they would brown and wither until given new life from the rain. The prophet makes this comparison: just as plants receive new life through the rains, God’s people will receive new life through the outpouring of the Spirit.

Crisis Converted Now:

Just as in the days of the prophet, God’s Spirit is still the ultimate life-giving force in the world. The connection between God’s Spirit and water continues for God’s people today. The apostle Peter promises in Acts 2 the life-giving force of the Holy Spirit will be given upon all who repent and are immersed in water. When we give our life to Christ, expressed in our baptism, God’s Spirit brings new life to our dry and withered condition. What areas of your life have you seen God bring back to life through his Spirit?