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Building Friendship with the Holy Spirit

May 17, 2025

Lecture on Friendship with the Holy Spirit

Introduction

  • Topic: Friendship with the Holy Spirit
  • Key Speaker: Kathryn Kuhlman, Jesus, Apostle Paul
  • Importance: Many Christians lack understanding of the Holy Spirit.

Views on the Holy Spirit

  1. Foggy Way
    • Holy Spirit perceived as atmospheric or weird.
    • Emphasizes that the Holy Spirit is wild, not weird.
  2. Familiar Way
    • Knowledge of the Holy Spirit through tradition and doctrine.
    • Personal anecdotes of growing up in a Pentecostal church.
    • Speaking in tongues as a milestone, but lacking personal transformation.

Personal Journey

  • Initial Experience: Speaking in tongues felt like a significant achievement.
  • Struggle: Despite speaking in tongues, personal issues like addiction remained.
  • Turning Point: A trip to Ukraine where a pastor emphasized knowing the Holy Spirit.
  • Transition: Move from familiarity to fellowship with the Holy Spirit.

Development of Fellowship

  • Actions Taken:
    • Praying for a personal relationship with the Holy Spirit.
    • Imagining the Holy Spirit as a personal presence.
    • Noticing personal improvements in behavior, e.g., being a better husband.

From Fellowship to Friendship

  • Definition: Friendship with the Holy Spirit involves obedience.
  • Comparison: Fellowship is communication; friendship requires action.
  • Personal Testimonies:
    • Acts of financial sacrifice and workplace commitment to show obedience.
    • Experiences of miraculous healings and church growth.

Characteristics of the Holy Spirit

  1. Ruler of Heaven's Wealth
    • Manages all of Heaven’s resources.
  2. Promoter of Jesus
    • Always points to Jesus, not self.
  3. Engagement with Us
    • Initiates interaction and tests our willingness to give.

Practical Steps for Deeper Relationship

  1. Water the Camels
    • Metaphor for volunteering and serving in the church.
    • Volunteering leads to spiritual growth and opportunities.
  2. Leaving the Comfort Zone
    • Comparison to Rebekah leaving familiarity for Isaac.
    • Encouragement to leave comfort for spiritual growth.

Conclusion

  • Invitation to Action: Encouragement to step out of complacency and pursue Holy Spirit friendship.
  • Call to Revival: Experience the liveliness and passion in personal faith and ministry.

Final Charge

  • Encouragement for personal reflection and action towards renewing spiritual life and relationship with the Holy Spirit.