“His father Zechariah was filled with the Holy Spirit and prophesied: “Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel, because he has come and has redeemed his people” (Luke 1:67-68).
The pre-Christmas story as presented by Luke makes reference to the Holy Spirit as the “behind-the-scenes” power/person who not only directs/guides people but is personally involved.
The presence of the Holy Spirit is invisible and His work is mysterious but the results are not – the results are visible; the outcome of His presence and work are visible (John 3:8).
The presence of the Holy Spirit manifests itself by words. The Holy Spirit prompts speech. Words are not the main sign of the Spirit’s presence. There are other, more important manifestations of His presence. Just a few examples without going into too much detail: a spiritual birth (John 3:8); He brings gifts (1Corinthians 12:11); and produces fruit (Galatians 5:22).
The pre-Christmas story contains three psalms…none of them included in the Book of Psalms. They are new psalms…new songs. All three are the result of the Holy Spirit’s presence.
In these songs we can find a language that is specific to God’s Spirit.
One characteristic of the Spirit’s language is that we can understand it.
“I have spoken to you of earthly things and you do not believe; how then will you believe if I speak of heavenly things?” (John 3:12).
The Holy Spirit is privy to things our mind and imagination are not capable of understanding. Paul had this experience (1Corinthians 2:9, 10). See (2Corinthians 12:3, 4). The Holy Spirit “speaks” so that we may understand.
When it comes to salvation – believing the Good News, His language takes a sense of urgency.
The Spirit’s call to salvation is stamped “TODAY”. (Hebrews 3:8).
I pray that in any situation we may be able to recognise the Holy Spirit’s voice and understand His language. Let the Holy Spirit speak through you!