This week’s message from The Gathering explored the vital and personal role of the Holy Spirit in our lives—our comforter, our guide, our strength.
More Than a Feeling—A Relationship
Jesus promised that even though He would leave physically, He would not leave us alone. In John 14:16, He says,
“And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Advocate to help you and be with you forever.”
The Holy Spirit is not a vague force or passing feeling. He is God’s presence dwelling with us—and in us—forever. He doesn’t just visit; He takes residence. When we live aware of His presence, we walk with power, purpose, and peace.
A Daily Connection
We were reminded that staying connected to the Holy Spirit is like keeping our GPS turned on. Without it, we’re directionless. With it, we are led step by step.
“Don’t make decisions without prayer. Let the Holy Spirit guide you.”
Just like a lamp can’t shine unless it’s plugged in, we can’t shine in this world unless we are connected to the power source. And that source is the Holy Spirit.
Fruit That Lasts
Galatians 5 tells us what a Spirit-led life looks like:
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.”
These aren’t personality traits we manufacture. They are spiritual fruit grown in us when we walk closely with God. The sermon challenged us to reflect:
Which of these fruits are flourishing in my life—and which are lacking?
He Helps When We Are Weak
Life can feel overwhelming. Sometimes our prayers are jumbled or nonexistent. But God doesn’t leave us stranded in our weakness. Romans 8:26 reminds us:
“In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness… the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express.”
Even when we don’t know how to pray, the Holy Spirit does. He is praying on our behalf.
The Gentle Prompting
We were reminded that voice inside us—that “don’t do that” nudge, or the push to bless someone in private—that’s not just our conscience. That’s the Holy Spirit. He doesn’t just convict us when we’re wrong; He also inspires us to do good, especially in secret.
“The Holy Spirit doesn’t want to impress humans. He wants to please God.”
Before You Start Your Day…
One of the most powerful takeaways was this daily practice:
“Before you declare that today will be the best day, turn on your location.”
In other words, open your heart to God. Start your day connected. That’s when you’ll be able to walk in step with the Spirit—and see His hand move in powerful ways.
Altar Call & Final Challenge
The service closed with a moment of surrender—inviting those who felt a nudge from God to come forward in obedience and be prayed over.
“Sometimes, you’re not going because of you. You’re going because of Him.”
We were reminded that the Spirit empowers us, guides us, grows fruit in us, and intercedes for us. But He never forces us—He waits for us to turn to Him.