This is what we speak, not in words taught us by human wisdom but in words taught by the Spirit, explaining spiritual realities with Spirit-taught words.

1 Corinthians 2:13

My university library holds a special place in my memory. I often sought refuge there from dorm life for studying. One day, however, instead of studying, a question about the Holy Spirit distracted me.

I wondered, “If the Holy Spirit was integral for living the Christian life, why hadn’t someone told me before now?” Until now, I had only heard the Holy Spirit’s name as part of the Trinity—the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost.

Eager for an answer, I matter-of-factly asked God to reveal to me if His Holy Spirit wanted to be actively involved in my life. I recall an immediate sense of His affirmation and His peaceful presence. My struggle to understand His role in my life instantly resolved. I quickly packed my books, eager to share the experience with my roommate. I also clearly recall my elevator companions’ uneasiness due to the apparent paradox of my huge smile and my tear-filled eyes.

What Paul wrote of the role the Spirit continues to help me understand other spiritual truths, wonderful things!

The Spirit searches all things even the deep things of God. For who knows a person’s thoughts except their own spirit within them? In the same way no one knows the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God…. words taught by the Spirit, explaining spiritual realities with Spirit-taught words (Cor. 2:10b-11,13b).

Father, thank You for leading me through Your Holy Spirit since that day in the campus library. Thank You for the riches of Your Word and the role of Your Spirit in revealing such wonderful things to me. May You be glorified in my life as I incorporate them into my journey. In Your Son’s name, Jesus, I pray. Amen.

Linda Lesniewski