A pastor argues that Christians often wrongly believe the Holy Spirit's power comes from prayer, Bible reading, and other disciplines. When these practices slip, believers feel abandoned by God. The Holy Spirit's power is a gift, not a reward for effort.
This idea that we have to work for the Holy Spirit is a religious notion that keeps Christians bound in guilt and shame and living powerless lives. We imagine as Christians, I did good on Monday, the Holy Spirit came closer. I prayed and read my Bible on Tuesday, the Holy Spirit came a little closer. Wednesday I went to church and volunteered, the Holy Spirit intensified on me. Now Thursday I prayed again, so now people can start feeling the power of God on me. Amen. I'm walking in the Spirit. Oh, Friday I looked with lust. It's all gone. Or, or, or I was climbing that spiritual ladder. I fasted, but then when I broke my fast, I fell all the way down. Or I read 10 chapters a day for 30 days. Oh, but on day 31, I only read 2. And then the next day, I, I was sick, so I didn't even get to get into the Word. And now the Lord is upset with me. Now I've lost the favor. Now I've lost the call. Now the Holy Spirit's power isn't as strong. That is to trust in your own ability. That is to trust in your own power. Now hear me clearly, please. I am not saying that you shouldn't do those things, but I'm saying if you think that's why God is using you, then you will give yourself the glory when the sick are healed. You will give yourself the glory when demons come out. Well, that's because I had authority because I'm living right. No, my friend. Who do you think gave you the desire? To even live right. I'm not saying that we shouldn't live holy. I'm saying that we have to stop thinking about religious works in the wrong way.
