The Holy Spirit Explained - Part ISample

Living in Gratitude for the Holy Spirit’s Presence

Imagine that we wake up each day and forget to acknowledge the incredible blessings we've received. It’s easy to take everyday conveniences for granted—things like cars, microwaves, or even the very air we breathe. Yet, gratitude is more than recognizing the material comforts of life; it extends to the spiritual realities that often slip our minds. Let’s focus on one such reality, one that shapes our lives in ways we may not fully appreciate—the Presence of the Holy Spirit.

In John 14:15-17, Jesus speaks to His disciples, preparing them for His departure and promising the Gift of the Holy Spirit. This promise, made over 2,000 years ago, is something we live in today. How often do we pause to be grateful for it?

The disciples, and indeed all believers before Pentecost, experienced the Holy Spirit in a different way than we do now. The Spirit was with them, guiding and empowering them, but He did not dwell within them as He does in us today. This shift—from the Spirit being “with” believers to being “in” them—is nothing short of extraordinary. It’s a reality that many generations of believers longed to experience, yet it has become so familiar to us that we risk overlooking its significance.

Think about the magnitude of this Gift. The Holy Spirit, the very Presence of God, is within us. He comforts, guides, convicts, and empowers us in ways that were unimaginable under the Old Covenant. The Spirit’s Indwelling is a continuous, personal relationship with God that we experience every moment of our lives.

But here’s the question: Are we grateful? Do we acknowledge this incredible reality daily, or have we become like those who simply assume their blessings will always be there? Our challenge today is to live in constant awareness and thankfulness for the Spirit's Presence. Let’s not allow familiarity to breed complacency.

As you go through your day, take time to recognize the Holy Spirit’s Work in your life. Start practicing gratitude for the Spirit’s Indwelling as a vibrant, life-changing reality. Reflect on how His Presence shapes your thoughts, actions, and decisions. Let this awareness lead you to deeper obedience and a more intimate walk with God. And this is just the beginning—there’s much more to discover and appreciate about the Holy Spirit’s role in your life.