How often do we think about what the Holy Spirit does without stopping to appreciate who He is?
We know that He guides us, strengthens us, and works in our lives, but how often do we simply give Him our attention? What might happen if we slowed down long enough to behold the Holy Spirit Himself, to consider His greatness, appreciate His goodness, and enjoy the One who has made His home in us?
In this message, we’re making room to do exactly that. Rather than focusing on what the Holy Spirit can do for us, we’re taking time to appreciate who He is. Scripture reveals someone whose greatness is beyond our understanding, yet who desires an extraordinarily personal relationship with us. There’s so much about the Holy Spirit that’s worthy of our wonder, our affection, and our worship. And that’s what beholding is all about. It’s allowing ourselves to be amazed by who God is, without needing to accomplish anything in the process. And as 2 Corinthians 3:18 reminds us, even as we simply behold His glory, the Holy Spirit is continuing His transforming work within us.
If you missed the live service or want to reflect further, you can watch the full message above anytime after. We’ve also included discussion questions to dig deeper into the message and a handout with fill-ins to guide your reflection. You can find the handout by clicking the “Download” button above. Whether you watch this on your own or share it with your small group, we hope this message encourages you.
Discussion Questions
- When you think about the Holy Spirit, do you tend to think more about what He does or who He is? Why do you think that is?
- What does it mean to behold the Holy Spirit rather than simply learn more information about Him? How might that change the way we approach worship?
- Genesis 1:1-2 reveals that the Holy Spirit was present at creation. How does considering His eternal nature affect the way you think about Him?
- In 1 Corinthians 2:10-12, Paul tells us that the Holy Spirit knows the deepest thoughts of God. What does that reveal about His nature, and why is it significant that this same Spirit has been given to us?
- Jesus promises in John 14:16-17 that the Holy Spirit will never leave us. How should that promise shape the way we relate to Him, especially when we’ve made mistakes or feel distant from God?
- In 2 Corinthians 13:14, Paul describes the fellowship of the Holy Spirit. What might enjoying a genuine friendship with the Holy Spirit look like in your ordinary daily life?
- Jesus tells us in John 16:13-15 that the Holy Spirit reveals His glory and faithfully communicates the things of God. How can we recognize when something we’re attributing to the Holy Spirit actually contradicts what Jesus has revealed?
- What does it tell us about the Holy Spirit’s character that He delights in revealing Jesus and bringing Him glory rather than drawing attention to Himself?
- Romans 5:5 describes God’s love being poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit. How is experiencing God’s love different from simply knowing that God loves us?
- What is one practical way you could make room this week to behold the Holy Spirit, enjoying who He is without turning that time into another opportunity to ask for something or evaluate your spiritual progress?
