The month of July has basically been one big road trip for Big D and I.  We have been to Tennessee, Kentucky, Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, Texas and Arkansas.  As we travel, we both love listening to music.  Sometimes we listen to the different radio stations we found, and other times we listen to Big D’s Apple Music collection.  (We are testing out a free three month trial.)  As we listen, I have been inspired, encouraged, and convicted by the words of the songs.  Some songs cut straight to the heart, and other songs are just fun.  


It is so easy though to get a catchy song caught in my head but not in my heart.   Take for example, Francesca Battistelli’s song, Holy Spirit.  See the lyrics here.  This worship song is actually one of my favorites but can be dangerous.  Why?  You ask.  The song is meant to help set the stage for worship and to help the worshiper focus on God.  I think it does that but I also think sometimes we might want the feeling of God’s presence but not all that comes with it.  I have been guilty of that.  I forget that worship should be more about God than my emotions.


When I say, “Holy Spirit, you are welcome here.”  Am I wanting all the Holy Spirit is and offers or just a good feeling?  Am I going for an emotion or a change in me?  Am I ready for the whole work of the Holy Spirit? 

• In John 14:26, the Holy Spirit wants to teach me all things and bring to remembrance the words of Jesus.
• In John 15: 8-11, this same Spirit convicts us concerning sin, righteousness, and judgement.
• In John 15: 13, the Holy Spirit will guide us to all truth.
• Galatians 5:22-23 reminds us of the fruit that comes from having the Holy Spirit working in our lives.  Fruit like love, patience, faith, and so forth.
• Romans 8:26,27 encourages us with the words that the Holy Spirit will pray for us when we don’t know what to pray.