Whom are we to believe?

Confusion about the truth seems to reign in the media and on social platforms. To my ear, even some so-called experts are speaking their opinions, not necessarily based in fact. For Christians, looking to God for the truth is paramount. Jesus promised that after his ascension to His Father, we would receive One who could lead us into all truth, the Holy Spirit. Indeed, Jesus called him the Spirit of truth.

John 16:13A But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Everyone who accepts the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross for their sins receives the Holy Spirit at salvation. I remember that day clearly, September 17, 1978. But there was more for me, and I believe it is available to all believers. Almost a year later, our pastor gathered all who wanted the second blessing or infilling of the Holy Spirit in our church basement. As we all prayed, I heard “say glory” so I did. I heard it a second time, so I said it. Then a third time and my obedience to yield my mouth to His control resulted in a fountain of words, not in my own language or any that I had studied, to pour forth. It was the gift of a language for prayer, and it has built my faith and my spirit since that day.

Jesus told the disciples that the Holy Spirit would not only lead them into all the truth but that they would receive power to be witnesses.

Acts 1:8 “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

That power is not exclusive to witnessing. It brings grace to live a life different from the old man. The Holy Spirit is the vehicle for change as the believer is led into the truth of the Scriptures and the change made by faith received from the Word of God. Knowing the voice of God, the Spirit’s inner promptings changes how I live. Just this week, weeks of struggling with not having consistent sleep pushed me forward. I asked a dozen friends to pray when I had an awfully bad night: I slept only 3-1/2 hours and was exhausted. It had been happening off and on for several weeks. When they began to pray, I clearly heard that my side sleeper pillow needed more filling. I thought I had removed the right amount for my needs. I immediately re-added filler and since then, my sleep has been deep and restful. Even the smallest issue in our lives is important to God, and the Holy Spirit’s ability to lead us to the truth blesses us and those whom we need to be helping.

Are there areas of your life or in world events that you need wisdom? Have you sought the second blessing? Ask the Holy Spirit to pour out the anointing you need to walk in truth and wisdom. God is willing to fill you anew and to overflowing every day.