Are Your Sails Raised?

         In the renewable energy sector in Germany, when the wind doesn’t blow, it’s called dunkelflaute–a period of “dark doldrums” with little or no wind and heavy cloud cover. At these times, meagre or no energy can be generated.

            During ancient times, ships sailing the seas of the world faced the same challenges. They were “becalmed”–unable to move due to lack of wind. During Roman times, crews on ships sailing the Mediterranean, dependent on wind and current, sometimes had to wait for days, or even weeks for a breeze. Although smaller vessels could use oars, the travel in this fashion was slow and exhausting.

            Today, in the modern world, wind provides renewable energy, assists with seed dispersal and pollination, regulates weather, and creates diverse forest landscapes. Without it, many things come to a standstill.

            The physical world is a mirror of the spiritual world. Without the wind of the Holy Spirit, there is no energy or movement to propel us forward spiritually. Jesus said, “the wind blows where it likes, you can hear the sound of it but you have no idea where it comes from and where it goes. Nor can you tell how a man is born by the wind of the Spirit” (John 3:8 Phillips).

            We can’t deny the presence of the wind when trees sway and rain is driven sideways. Likewise, we can’t deny the work of the Holy Spirit when lives, formerly hostile to God, are transformed by the saving grace of Jesus. Or when we see the gifts of the Holy Spirit operating, bringing blessing to those who yield to His power.

            Is the wind of the Holy Spirit blowing in your life? If it isn’t, our Christian walk can become slow and tedious, even motionless, going nowhere. But take heart. There’s good news. The wind of the Spirit is always blowing. The question is, how do we raise our sails?

            Firstly, we need to acknowledge and repent of our sins. God fills repentant hearts. “People who conceal their sins will not prosper, but if they confess and turn from them, they will receive mercy” (Proverbs 28:13 NLT).

            Secondly, we need a continual infilling of the Holy Spirit. It is a daily process, not a single event. “Stop getting drunk with wine, which leads to wild living, but keep on being filled with the Spirit” (Ephesians 5:18 ISV).

            Thirdly, our minds require daily renewal through God’s Word. “Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect” (Romans 12:2 NLT).
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            Fourthly, experiencing the fullness of the Holy Spirit necessitates a life of submission. “Now yield and submit yourself to Him [agree with God and be conformed to His will] and be at peace; In this way [you will prosper and great] good will come to you” (Job 22:21 AMP). Submission brings blessing.
            The Holy Spirit is always moving. Hoist your sails and catch His wind now.
 
Inspiration for this article was provided by Pastor Bill at Faithworks Centre outside of Charlottetown, PEI.