Wind of the Holy Spirit

Last month, we explored how worship brings God's presence and transforms the atmosphere around us. This month, we are learning about the "wind" which is connected to this transformation. In the Bible, wind often symbolizes the Holy Spirit, who moves in our lives to bring about change. It reminds me of the day of Pentecost when the Holy Spirit descended.

Acts 2:1-4

When the day of Pentecost had come, they were all together in one place, and suddenly a sound came from heaven like a rushing violent wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. There appeared to them tongues resembling fire, which were being distributed [among them], and they rested on each one of them [as each person received the Holy Spirit]. And they were all filled [that is, diffused throughout their being] with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues (different languages), as the Spirit was giving them the ability to speak out [clearly and appropriately].

The presence of the Holy Spirit was so powerful that some who didn’t understand mocked them, saying, "They’re just drunk on sweet wine!" (Acts 2:13). This prompted Peter to explain what was truly happening. Let’s dive deeper into how the wind of the Holy Spirit influences our lives and churches, as seen in the Book of Acts.

1. We Will Prophesy and See Visions.

Acts 2:17

And it shall be in the last days,’ says God, ‘That I will pour out My Spirit upon all mankind; And your sons and your daughters shall prophesy. Your young men shall see [divinely prompted] visions, and your old men shall dream [divinely prompted] dreams.

To prophesy means to receive a "message from God." When the Holy Spirit is poured out on us, we begin to receive these messages. The Holy Spirit reveals the Father's plans for us or others, whether through prophesy, dreams or visions. This deepens our personal relationship with Him and helps us understand His will more clearly.

2. We Will Become Courageous and Step Forward for the Gospel.

Acts 2:14

But Peter, standing with the eleven, raised his voice and addressed them: “Men of Judea and all you who live in Jerusalem, let this be explained to you; listen closely and pay attention to what I have to say."

Peter, along with the other eleven apostles, stepped forward and began preaching to the crowd. This was the same Peter who had denied Jesus three times. But when he heard people mocking, saying they were drunk, Peter didn’t stay silent. Instead, he boldly addressed the crowd and shared God’s message. When we are filled with the Holy Spirit, we too can gain the courage to step forward and stand up for the gospel.

3. We Will Repent and Change Our Ways.

Acts 2:37

Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart [with remorse and anxiety], and they said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Brothers, what are we to do?”

Peter's message pierced the hearts of the audience, and they asked him and the other apostles, "Brothers, what should we do?" Peter responded by telling them to repent of their sins and turn to God. When the Holy Spirit works in our lives, we recognize the need for change. A key sign of being filled with the Holy Spirit is the willingness to repent and change our behavior when we do wrong.

4. We Will Become More Generous and Willing to Give.

Acts 2:44-46

And all those who had believed [in Jesus as Savior] were together and had all things in common [considering their possessions to belong to the group as a whole]. And they began selling their property and possessions and were sharing the proceeds with all [the other believers], as anyone had need. Day after day they met in the temple [area] continuing with one mind, and breaking bread in various private homes. They were eating their meals together with joy and generous hearts.

These verses beautifully illustrate how the believers formed a loving community, sharing everything they had. They joyfully sold their property and possessions to support those in need, creating an atmosphere of generosity and joy. This is a wonderful example of reflecting God’s love in our own lives. Are we ready to reach out to the poor and needy with open hearts? Do we give to the house of God out of love and gratitude rather than obligation? Let’s consider giving beyond just our ten percent tithes. When the church collects special offerings for meaningful projects, let’s respond eagerly to the Holy Spirit’s nudging to give generously. Together, we can make a difference!

If you’re considering supporting a Christian community, why not join our Heavenly Harvest Alliance? Being part of this wonderful group has been a blessing for me. I receive so much more from this community than I give each month!

5. Miracles Like Signs and Healings Will Happen.

Acts 2:43

A sense of awe was felt by everyone, and many wonders and signs (attesting miracles) were taking place through the apostles.

This tells us that the apostles performed many miraculous signs and wonders. In Acts 3, there’s a story of Peter healing a crippled beggar. When the people saw the once-lame beggar walking, they were filled with amazement. While some Christians believe that miracles and supernatural healings no longer occur today, we have faith in the same Jesus that Peter and the apostles believed in. If miracles and healings happened in the past, they can happen today as well!

6. The Church Will Grow Significantly and Conflicts May Arise.

Acts 2:41

So then, those who accepted his message were baptized; and on that day about 3,000 souls were added [to the body of believers].

One of the most amazing things that happens when the Holy Spirit moves is the increase in baptisms and church membership. Acts 2:41 records that 3,000 people were added, and by Acts 4:4, that number grew to 5,000! With this growth, conflicts began to arise. In Acts 6, Greek-speaking believers raised concerns about their widows being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. The apostles recognized that their priority was teaching the Word of God, so they proposed selecting seven respected men filled with the Spirit and wisdom to handle the food distribution. Everyone agreed, and the church continued to grow.

While many churches long for revival and growth, we must remember that some complaints may arise due to human nature. Let’s be encouraged to address these matters with God-given wisdom and solutions while keeping our priorities in focus.

7. Persecution Will Begin.

Acts 4:2-3

Being extremely disturbed and thoroughly annoyed because they were teaching the people and proclaiming in [the case of] Jesus the resurrection of the dead. So they arrested them and put them in jail until the next day, because it was evening.

Not everyone is pleased with revival. As God’s word spreads and the number of believers increase and persecution arises. In Acts 4, Peter and John were arrested, but despite being threatened by the council, they responded courageously, vowing to continue sharing God’s message. 

Acts 7:55-56

But he, being full of the Holy Spirit and led by Him, gazed into heaven and saw the glory [the great splendor and majesty] of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God; and he said, “Look! I see the heavens opened up [in welcome] and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God!”

Acts 7 recounts the story of Stephen, who was stoned to death. Before his death, he saw Jesus standing in a place of honor at God's right hand and shared this vision with his persecutors. Instead of repenting, they were filled with rage and stoned him to death.

Following God’s ways can cause discomfort to others, as our beliefs align more with God’s principles rather than the world’s. This may lead to challenges from loved ones or authorities. It takes faith to stand firm, so may we have the courage of Stephen to keep our focus on Jesus.

8. Persecution Scatters Believers, Spreading the Good News.

Acts 8:2

Some devout men buried Stephen, and mourned greatly over him [expressing a personal sense of loss].

This shows that on that day, a great persecution broke out against the church in Jerusalem, causing believers to scatter throughout Judea and Samaria. Acts 8:4 tells us that those who were scattered preached the word wherever they went, sharing the good news of salvation through Christ. Though persecution led to the scattering of believers, every new place they went became an opportunity to spread God’s message further. What was intended for evil turned into something beautiful. When we face difficulties, let us be encouraged that what seems negative can be transformed into good.

9. Saul the Persecutor Becomes Paul the Apostle.

Acts 9:17

So Ananias left and entered the house, and he laid his hands on Saul and said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you came [to Damascus], has sent me so that you may regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit [in order to proclaim Christ to both Jews and Gentiles].” 

One of the highlights in Acts is Saul's transformation from a persecutor of Christians to a devoted apostle. After encountering the Lord, Saul became Paul, completely transformed. He accomplished many great things for God, faced persecution numerous times, and wrote 13 books in the New Testament, which continue to influence Christians today. Before Saul’s transformation, God sent Ananias to pray for him. Although hesitant due to Saul’s reputation, Ananias obeyed, as God had chosen Saul to be His instrument. This shows us the Holy Spirit’s power to transform lives.

As we hear about the persecution of Christians today, let us remember that God can touch the lives of persecutors and turn them into believers. Let’s also pray for those who are skeptical or critical, asking God to open their eyes to His reality.

This Week's Action Steps:

This week, let’s pray for our hearts to be open and ready for the work God wants to do in our lives. Think about one area you want to see change—whether it’s your relationships, career, or spiritual walk. Ask God to prepare you for transformation and invite the Holy Spirit to move in that area. Pray for strength, faith, and wisdom, especially when things seem difficult. Ask for endurance to stay the course.

When the Holy Spirit moves, it can bring shifts that sometimes look chaotic. Hold onto God and trust that He is working for your good. Remember, Jesus has already borne the weight of our struggles on the cross, taking on our shame so that we can live life abundantly and to the fullest.

Let’s Pray Together:

Dear God, thank You for the Bible study on the wind, representing the Holy Spirit. We open our hearts to the wind of the Holy Spirit and welcome it to move in our lives. Show us the areas where You want to bring change, and give us the strength, endurance, and joy we need, no matter our circumstances. Help us to trust that You are working all things for our good. In the name of Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen.