I have been back from World Race training camp for a whole day now and reflecting on my time there, I am definitely a different person than I was two weeks ago. There were a lot of firsts, whether it had to do with living conditions, physical activities or teachings. Here is what I learned about myself and the Holy Spirit.
The last three years have been a time of immeasurable growth and learning for me. I attended bible school, interned for a ministry and worked for a church as well. Last week I realized that while those 3 years were great, that was only the beginning. I have a good understanding of who God and Jesus are and who I am in Him but I have largely left out a part of the Trinity.
The Holy Spirit isn’t seen in much of my life because I simply don’t have to depend on Him in many areas. Yes, I realize that sounds like an excuse and I guess it is but it is largely true in my life. I do not feel the need to acknowledge Him because a lot of times I depend on a pastor or a church to hear from Him for me. I don’t feel the need to depend on Him physically and financially because I live in the greatest country in the world and have a great family that makes life easy.
This past week I was challenged in different church services to hear from the Holy Spirit for other people in the room. It’s amazing when we just ask and listen how willing He is to talk to you. I was able to influence someone else by simply saying what the Holy Spirit was telling me and encouraging them in that area. The crazy thing is I had that inside of me the whole time! I didn’t have to wait until a speaker pushed me to do it at training camp. Most of us have been missing out on this gift because of comfort and fear, but it is one of the most empowering things we could ever do. If we are willing, we can hear and be used by God!
I will have to depend on the Holy Spirit’s voice like I have never had to before. There will be times when I won’t know where I am sleeping or when I am lost in a city where I don’t speak or read the language. I will have to depend on Him to lead conversations when there is nothing I could possibly say with my limited understanding. I will have to depend on Him because there is no other option. And I love this!
This year is going to be another year of intense growth but in a much different way. It won’t be in a comfortable classroom or church building. It is now time to take what I have learned and put it to the test. I am no longer satisfied with just reading about things God is doing or fantasizing about being the person God speaks to and uses to do miracles. I am ready to step out with the Holy Spirit and experience Him and His power first hand!!
