Conference on The Holy Spirit with Dave Patty
January 26-27, 2008

How does the Holy Spirit relate to my will? Understanding what it means to "walk" as referred to in Galatians 5:16-26 is crucial. We must recognize that this is not a one-time event. I must choose to submit my will to him over and over every day. The focus is on individual steps. He makes a step, I make one as well. These steps are often small and I don't necessarily see where they are going. Walking int he Spirit is not complicated and brings much freedom. Our responsibility is just to keep in step with him - his responsibility is to change us and take us in the right direction. The fruit of the Spirit is a natural outgrowth of this way of living. If we don't see the fruit it is an indication that we are not walking with the Spirit. We need to solve the problem by addressing the cause, not just trying to change the symptoms.

What did Jesus teach about the Spirit? He promised a Counselor, but what does that mean?  How does the Holy Spirit relate to my mind? What did the apostles teach about the Spirit? If we want the life and peace the Holy Spirit promises we must take responsibility for submitting our thoughts to him.  How does the Holy Spirit relate to my will? Understanding what it means to "walk" as referred to in Galatians 5:16-26 is crucial. We must recognize that this is not a one-time event. I must choose to submit my will to him over and over every day.  How is a person filled with the Holy Spirit? I am filled with the Spirit when His presence, influence and control penetrate every corner of my life (John 12:3). How can I be more filled with the Spirit?

The disciples knew the power of the Holy Spirit. After a commission to spread the good news to the world, they were instructed to wait “for the gift my Father promised, which you heard me speak about.” (Acts 1:4) A few days later they were filled with the Spirit and the result was so powerful that three thousand people were added to their number that day.

As Catherine Marshall said,“We in our century are certainly no less needy than our Lord or those first disciples. For us to attempt any church work, any ministry or witnessing solely through man’s devices, talents, and organizational machinery alone is as effective as trying to drive our car with water in the gas tank.”

What about you? Is the Holy Spirit free to do his work in your life? Are you experiencing the energy of his presence?