Why should the Holy Spirit matter today?

The Holy Spirit is a person and he is holy. He also still speaks to us. Why should that matter to your personal life?

The Holy Spirit shows us our guilt as sinners, convicting us of righteousness and judgment (Acts 2:36, 37). He then imparts spiritual life to those who are spiritually dead (Ephesians 2:1; cf. Titus 3:5; John 3:3–5).

Now, he indwells the believer (1 Corinthians 6:19, 20) and sets us free from sin (Romans 8:2). He forms Christ within us (Ephesians 3:14–19), bringing forth Christlike graces of character (Galatians 5:22, 23). He guides the believer into the life of a son (Romans 8:14) and bears witness to our sonship (Romans 8:15, 16).

The Spirit brings to remembrance the words of Christ and will teach us all things (John 14:26). He reveals the deep things of God that are hidden from and foolishness to the "natural man" (1 Corinthians 2:9–13). He interprets his own revelation to us (2:14), enabling Christians to communicate to others in power the truth we have been taught by him (2:1–5).

He guides the believer in prayer (Jude 20; Ephesians 6:18). He inspires and guides us in thanksgiving (5:18–20). And he inspires and leads our worship (Philippians 3:3). 

He infills the believer (Ephesians 5:18). He sends us into definite vocations (Acts 13:2–4). And he guides us in daily life (8:27–29; 16:6, 7).

Pause here and reread the lists above. 

How have you seen the Holy Spirit work in your life in each of those areas?

One of the most significant ways the Holy Spirit impacts the lives of Christians is through the "spiritual gifts" he bestows on us at our salvation. 

We’ll discuss these spiritual gifts in our next two devotionals.