Glad you Asked - how do I know I have the Spirit of God?

Glad you asked – how do I know I have the Spirit of God?

It is often gets asked by Christians or those exploring the Christian faith.  I answered it recently via a short study at the many different ways Paul in the Bible sees proof of the Spirit’s presence with us:

An unshakeable conviction in the face of persecution or abuse

(1 Thessalonians 1:5)

Joy in the midst of suffering, hardship or unhappiness

(1 Thessalonians 1:6)

A developing character – fruit

(Galatians 5:22-25)

A deep sense of God as our Father

(Romans 8:15-16)

A longing for God, for heaven and living for him

(Romans 8:23; 2 Corinthians 5:1-5)

Growing love for others reflected in growing prayer

(Romans 15:30)

Miracles and the unexplained

(Romans 15:19)

People converted through our relationship with them

(1 Corinthians 2:3-5)

Having a gift, talent or skill and using it to help others

(1 Corinthians 12:4-11)

Realising that Jesus is Lord

(1 Corinthians 12:3; 1John 4:2)