Read Romans 8:16–171 Corinthians 6:19–20; 12:4–7

The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, heirs also, heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him in order that we may also be glorified with Him. (Romans 8:16–17 NASB)

How do we recognize the Spirit’s ministry? Within us and around us every day we see evidences of His dynamic power.

We see the Spirit at work in our lives. We can know the Spirit’s presence by witnessing it in our own lives. His work is continually going on. The Spirit of God works deeply and intimately to transform our lives. He passionately desires to direct our steps, cleanse our thoughts, heal our wounds, take over our worries, reveal God’s will, and protect us from evil. All this and so much more is ours through the dynamic presence of the One whom Jesus sent to be our Helper.

We see the Spirit empowering gifted Christians for ministry. Those gifts and ministries differ and vary, but the same Holy Spirit is at work. When I hear a gifted teacher expound the Scriptures, I am benefiting from the Spirit’s work in that person’s life. When I hear of or see people gifted in evangelism winning people to Christ, I know the work of the Spirit is involved. When I see people showing mercy and encouragement, demonstrating hospitality, and helping others, I am witnessing the work of the Spirit.

We see the Spirit restraining lawlessness. Now, I can hear your immediate reaction. “What? Restraining lawlessness? Have you looked at the headlines lately?” Lawlessness appears to be at an all-time high.

But think about it: What would this world be like if the controlling influence of the Spirit of God were lifted from this earth? If all the believers, empowered with the Spirit of God, suddenly disappeared? When the restrainer (the controlling power of the Spirit) is removed, there will be expressions and outbreaks of evil like we have never witnessed. But for now, we know His work is evident because He continues to restrain lawlessness.

Finally, we see the Spirit regenerating the lost. He is still expanding the ranks of the church. The Spirit is still at work, leading people to Christ. still building His church. The Spirit is still at work transforming lives. He is still touching people. Still using folks like you and me. The Spirit of God is very much alive and well on Planet Earth. His ministry is far from over!

Taken from Flying Closer to the Flame by Charles R. Swindoll. Copyright © 1993 by Charles R. Swindoll, Inc. All rights reserved worldwide. Deepen your intimacy with the living God by reading Embraced by the Spirit, an updated release of Flying Closer to the Flame.