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Partakers of the Holy Ghost

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Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D.C. · Aug 12, 1909

FromReview and Herald, Vol. 86, No. 32.

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Partakers of the Holy Ghost

By A. SMITH

A. SMITH
THE Holy Ghost can not affiliate with cherished sinful conditions. He only “that hath clean hands, and a pure heart,” can receive the Holy Ghost, except as a convictor or reprover of sin. He can not dwell in the heart of one who indulges in evil speaking, foolish talking, or jesting. See Eph. 4:29-31; 5:1-4.
The message is sometimes presented with a fervor and pathos approaching tears; and then, when the messenger is off duty, there follows a relaxation to the extent of laughing and trifling, which makes an observer wonder if the serious mood was put on only for the occasion. This deadens spirituality, and grieves the Spirit. A meek and quiet spirit is always of great price in the sight of God. 1 Peter 3:4.
The habit, often indulged, of turning the incidents of daily life into mirth-provoking remarks is very blighting to the growth of the spiritual life. The Holy Ghost can not dwell in such a life. Christ indulged in no such practises; and one in whom the Holy Spirit dwells will walk as he walked. 1 John 2:6; 1 Peter 2:21, 22. Every dishonest deed of the life must be put away by confession and restoration as far as possible, before the Holy Ghost can come into the life as a sanctifying, working power.
The Lord is willing and waiting to give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him. Luke 11:13. But the first office of the Spirit will be to drive the traffickers out of the temple. John 2:15, 16. It will not be eloquence of diction or force of argument that will speedily bring the message to a close, but the power and pathos of Spirit-filled lives.
Grandville, Mich.