Power of the Holy Spirit.
By Independent
An engine is of little practical worth until the steam be admitted to the cylinder. Then it becomes mighty. Vast power is generated. The wheels begin to revolve, they in turn communicate motion to others; and thus a whole factory, with its hundreds of workmen, becomes a scene of activity. And so a soul in its natural state, unbaptized by the Spirit of God, is unfitted for the Master's service. There is in it no impulsive force in the direction of spiritual results. But when all barriers are removed—all obstacles of pride and selfishness taken away—and the Spirit of God is admitted and allowed full sway within, the dormant energies begin to be awakened. The power of God is felt in the life, and the man is qualified by a divine energizing to enter upon active, effective Christian work, and to communicate a quickening spiritual impulse to others. Every one feels its influence. Christians realize a new stimulus. Backsliders are recovered. The cold and distant are warmed into new life, and the impenitent are made thoughtful. It is difficult to estimate the power for good of a soul thus thoroughly endued with energy from on high. Its influence, though it may be quiet, is yet like a silent, mighty current. And when a body of Christians, when a whole church is thus baptized, nothing can withstand its might.—Independent.