A number of years ago a group of business and professional men invited me to go on a sailing trip in the Bahamas. It was an unforgettable experience. We had four 44 foot sail boats and one full power yacht. I was invited to conduct a devotional period each day.
When the wind was blowing and the sails were set just right, it was a delightful experience. It was very quiet and peaceful as we would glide through the water. However, there would be times when there was not enough wind to move the boat. When the boat was not sailing, it would stop and list to one side. On those occasions, it seemed like we would blister in the blazing sun. It was anything but pleasant.
One time, by mistake, we got into unprotected waters. The wind and the waves literally tossed our sailboat around like a cork in the ocean. It was exciting and dangerous at the same time.
When the gift of the Holy Spirit was given on the day of Pentecost, the scriptures tell us that one of the accompanying signs was the sound of a mighty rushing wind. It had the effect of propelling the disciples out of the Upper Room into the highways and byways to fearlessly proclaim the gospel of the resurrected Christ. Once they emptied themselves of their self- centered ambitions and were filled with the Holy Spirit, they literally turned the world upside down.
One effect of the wind is to purify the atmosphere. You will recall some of those hot, humid summer days when the wind is still, the atmosphere gets heavy, a haze hides the blue skies, breathing becomes difficult and we are urged to stay inside in air conditioned places. How refreshing it is when the summer breezes pick up and the atmosphere is cleansed.
When a believer is filled with the Holy Spirit their heart is cleansed from the disposition of sin. The pollution of the carnal mind is cleansed and the heart is made pure. We are given power to live victoriously and to serve God effectively.
If you feel spiritually dry and stagnate in your relationship with the Lord, it's time to seek a fresh infilling with the Holy Spirit.
If the church has stopped moving, it's time to seek the face of God. In these days we must have the power of the Holy Spirit to launch us forward. Without His power, our mightiest human effort will only exhaust our human strength and result in little if any progress. Let's realize where our power comes from and allow the Spirit of the Lord to move us forward.
It's time in our CCCU churches and in America for a mighty wind to clear the polluted atmosphere and move this ship forward. "Come Holy Spirit we need you."
Holy Spirit rain down, rain down
Oh comforter and friend
How we need your touch again
Holy Spirit, rain down, rain down
Let your power fall
Let your voice be heard
Come and change our hearts
As we stand on your word
Holy Spirit rain down
No eye has seen, no ear has heard
No mind can know what God has in store
So open up heaven, open it wide
Over your church and over our lives
Holy Spirit rain down
