The Spirit Who Is Present - Jake Vaden

We’re halfway into our Empowered teaching series, and one question keeps stirring in me: Do I actually live like the Holy Spirit is real and present in my life?  

Most of us would check the box that we “believe” in the Holy Spirit. But functionally? At least speaking for myself, I have been guilty of treating the Spirit as an idea, not a Person.   

But Jesus never meant for us to live that way.  

In John 16:7, Jesus makes a stunning claim: “But very truly I tell you, it is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Advocate will not come to you...” Better? Really? According to Jesus, the indwelling presence of the Spirit is a greater gift than His own physical presence beside us. That means the Spirit is not some divine afterthought; we are meant to depend on Him daily.  

Ignoring the Spirit isn’t just impractical, it’s unbiblical. I have recently been reading in the book of Acts and the early Church didn’t just believe in the Holy Spirit; they relied on Him. They prayed with boldness, followed His lead, discerned His voice, and acted in faith, often with miraculous results.  

So why don’t we?  

Maybe it’s fear. Maybe it’s skepticism. Maybe it’s just distraction. Whatever it is, it’s worth reflecting, what would change in my life if I actually believed the Spirit of God lives in me?  

As we reflect this week on the Spirit remember: He’s not distant. He’s not silent. He’s not uninterested. He’s near. He’s speaking. And He’s empowering you today.  

Slow down. Breathe deep. Ask Him to move. And expect that He will.  

Jake Vaden
Family Pastor | Hope City Church