I would like to continue writing about the Holy Spirit in our lives. It looks like we are being led into a deeper teaching than what I planned, so get ready and put on your thinking hats. Since this is the dispensation of the Holy Spirit, it’s critical that we learn and understand what that entails.
I have been using 2 Corinthians 13:14 as a reference and will continue to do so:
“The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen.” (2 Corinthians 13:14)
I have pointed out that Jesus emphasizes grace, God emphasizes love, and the Holy Spirit emphasizes communion. Each person in the trinity has a distinct function.
The Holy Spirit’s Presence and Function
I have already mentioned the Holy Spirit’s presence with the Father during the creation, but I think we need to delve deeper into His function and what He specifically does. The Holy Spirit is first mentioned in the context of the creation of the heavens and the earth. The following reference provides insight into His involvement and function:
Genesis 1:1-2:
“In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was without form and void, and darkness was over the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters.”
This passage indicates that the Spirit of God (the Holy Spirit) was actively present during the creation process. Just as God and Jesus are presently active in our lives, so is the Holy Spirit. According to the scripture above, He was hovering over the waters before the formation of light and land.
Understanding “Hover” in Hebrew
The word “hover” in Hebrew is “ָר ַחף ” (râchaph, raw-khaf’), a primitive root that means to brood. By implication, it means to be relaxed: to flutter, move, or shake.
This definition is so exciting to me. For example, the word “brood” has several connotations:
1. Nurturing and Protective Presence: Just as a bird broods over its eggs to keep them warm and safe, God’s Spirit is seen as a nurturing and protective force. He, at this very moment, is surrounding us with a nurturing and protective force that we do not see.
2. Preparation for Creation: The act of brooding implies anticipation and readiness for creation, much like a bird’s eggs are on the verge of hatching into new life. The Holy Spirit wants to birth something you have been carrying inside for many years and most likely you’re not even aware of what that is.
3. Dynamic Movement: The word “brood” also conveys a sense of gentle yet purposeful movement, indicating the Spirit has an active involvement in the process of creation. He is gentle with us but nudges us towards growth to encourage us to be who He intended us to be.
The Holy Spirit’s Role Today
According to the definition of the word “hover,” the Holy Spirit is relaxed, moving, and shaking. We all know His presence is with you and me right now. He is relaxed with who you are and what you are doing in your life. He is slowly moving you in the direction that He intends and He also needs to shake us a little bit every once in a while just to get our attention.
Conclusion
The Holy Spirit’s presence in our lives is profound and multifaceted. He nurtures, protects, prepares, and gently moves us toward growth and fulfillment. As we continue to explore His role and function, let us remain open to His guidance, comfort, and transformative power. The Holy Spirit is not just a passive presence but an active force, leading us to become who we are meant to be. Embrace His movement in your life, and allow Him to shape and mold you into the masterpiece you were created to be.
