For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit (Romans 14:17)

Whose ministry has touched your life most deeply?

A wonderful friend, now more alive in the Lord’s presence, was a man of great peace and joy. Some of my warmest memories are of travelling together, sharing in ministry. We prayed often, talked endlessly, and laughed constantly. I often wondered how he found so much joy in living. No doubt his emotional “thermostat” tended toward a “high” setting, but the real secret was his close walk with Christ in the Holy Spirit.

There is confusion today about the Holy Spirit and much unhealthy fascination with dramatic manifestations. To be sure, he can work powerfully. “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you,” said the angel to Mary. The birth of Jesus soon followed. Sometimes the Spirit changes the course of events and even entire lives.

But for most of us, most of time, the Spirit works quietly. We may even forget he is there at all, but he is: encouraging, comforting, strengthening and, yes, bringing joy. “Righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit,” says Paul in Romans, are some of the most powerful evidences of his work. 

Have you ever wondered if the Holy Spirit has really touched your life? At least in any large way? Think again! His influence is greater than you realize, deeper than you imagine, and more profound than you’ll ever know. He is God’s gift of his presence to every believer. Open your heart to his work. Thank him for living within you.