Over the last few weeks, we’ve heard several teachings referencing fire throughout scripture. There are two things that the Lord consistently asked me to pay attention to as I listened: the Holy Spirit fire within us and God Himself being described as fire.
John the Baptist spoke of believers being baptized in the Holy Spirit and fire when Jesus arrives. (Matthew 3:1-12) Verse 10 in this text also references the fire that consumes the trees chopped down by God’s judgment. It shows that fire can be different things at different times. As I meditated on this, God began to reveal Himself further.
Holy Spirit Fire
Holy Spirit fire is God’s gift to us! After Jesus was crucified and about to be taken up to heaven, He told the disciples that those who believed and were baptized would receive the Holy Spirit and everything that accompanied it – miraculous signs, speaking in tongues, and laying on of hands. (Mark 16:16-18) Later on, we see this promise fulfilled in Acts 2:2-3.
One definition from Webster’s Dictionary 1828 describes fire as “heat and light emanating visibly, perceptibly and simultaneously from any body.” Now, if we are filled with the Holy Spirit, shouldn’t others be able to see that fire when they look at us? Jesus not only told us we could have it; He then told us to go out and share it with others (Matthew 28:19).
But how can they see our Holy Spirit fire if we don’t keep it maintained? Just like any other fire source, our spirit requires fuel. We add to our fire by being consistent in prayer, worship, and studying the Word. And when you add fuel to a fire, it can grow into something that can no longer be contained!
God’s Fire
God’s fire is also a gift to us – just in a different way. This fire is meant to shake things up and “clean house.” It serves as a warning to those who have not chosen Him as the Lord of their life. (Hebrews 12:27-29) Praise God that we have all been given the opportunity to step into an unshakeable kingdom by receiving Jesus! (John 3:16) We also see where God’s fire provides us with protection or guidance. (Exodus 13:21, Zechariah 2:5)
Most notably, God will use fire to refine His people (Zechariah 13:9). God’s fire can shine a light on things we need to change while at the same time using that fire to devour what we don’t need to hold on to.
It’s time for us to take a closer look at our fire within. How big is your flame? Can it be seen by others? Are you ready when the Lord is asking you to minister to someone? If your fire is about to go out, what can you do to build it into an uncontainable blaze?
It’s time for us to walk through God’s refining fire. What do we need to let go of that’s not honoring to God? Are you willing to ask Him to shine a light on the things that need to change?
