Release of the SpiritSample

“Release of The Spirit” by Bryan Craig

DAY THREE

Scripture:

“Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise Him, my Savior and my God.” Psalm 42:11

Thought: 

Remembering that our soul is part of our Outer Man, which comprises of our thoughts, emotions, and will, I understand that there are times when my soul feels down. At one time, I would have thought the barometer of my feelings was my spirit. You’ve heard people say, "His spirit was dampened." Or "He needs a lift in his spirit." Or "They really have school spirit."

Now I understand that Biblically speaking, the spirit of man is that eternal part of him, his Inner Man. For believers in Christ, man’s spirit has been united with the Holy Spirit so it is never downcast or stained by sin.

Yet, the soul is subject to pain. The evil darts of temptation take their aim at our thoughts first, before the temptation turns into sin, which is carried out in our flesh. So we must be aware of what is going on with our soul, and the psalmist tells us to turn that over to God.

Application: 

How is your soul? I’ve read many books lately on the importance of soul health. When we start our ministry's Board meetings, we ask, “How’s your soul?” This is that layer of us that is still considered “Outer Man” and yet it is one ring closer to “Inner Man” so it can be hidden from sight. We can put on a good mask for the world, but deep inside, we are dying.

It’s time for you to lay your soul before the Lord, uncovered and bare. It’s time for a soul check. Consider your thoughts, emotions, and will. Are they in sync with God’s will for you? Is the Holy Spirit permeating these areas?

Write down your thoughts about this in your journal. This is very important.

Response: 

If your soul is unhealthy, what are you willing to do to find health? Are you abiding, for that is the source of all spiritual health?

Write a prayer in your journal….let it be a prayer of praise if the Spirit is blessing and guiding your soul….let it be a prayer of repentance and surrender if you are holding back the winds of the Spirit. Talk to someone you trust about your revelations today.