STRAIGHT FROM THE PULPIT

Pastor Larry Gatlin, SO. Oregon

The Holy Spirit

I want us to think about the third person of the God Head, "The Holy Spirit," for a little while this month.  He has become a real source of focus for the Body of Believers where Janice and I are currently worshipping. In fact we are calling this the "Year of the Holy Spirit" at River Gate in Ashland Oregon.

The Holy Spirit is more than just a name. He is indeed the third person of the Trinity. We often define the Trinity as, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Just what does the Holy Spirit do?

He draws us to the God Head.   John 3:5-6~
Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. (KJV)

The Spirit teaches.  Luke 12:12 ~ For the Holy Ghost shall teach you in the same hour what ye ought to say.  (KJV)

He helps us walk in Righteousness and not the flesh.  Romans  8:4-5~
That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.   For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit.  (KJV)

He quickens us and gives us real life. He also causes us to become Sons of God as we walk in His presence.  Romans 8:11-14~
But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you.  Therefore, brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live after the flesh. For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live. For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.  (KJV)

There is so much more that He does for us. And maybe over the next few months we'll look at them closer. But for now I want us to think about this, the Holy Spirit is our special friend! He comes to lead us into the Works of Christ and all that He did, is doing, and has yet to do for those who love Him.

There are so many times when we seem to be alone. Sometimes even in a crowd. But the Holy Spirit is always there with us. He is always right beside us. In fact one of the names that helps describe the work of the Holy Spirit is, "The Paraclete" -  One called to stand beside.

So as we walk on into this New Year, walk in and with the Holy Spirit. He will lead you into some really great places and experiences.

Pastor Larry

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