We're ready! We're able! We're listening. But, for some reason, the Holy Spirit isn't speaking. What's going on? The Holy Spirit is with us, but doing things we sometimes fail to understand.
People are desperate to hear from God and know His will for their lives. Some argue that God doesn’t speak anymore, so people are left to understand God by testing Him, reading scripture, or interpreting their life circumstances. Does God speak? Does He do so audibly, clearly, and powerfully?
Some look for truth in doctrine. Others look for truth in power. The Holy Spirit is a person, one we experience in relationship. That relationship reveals the truth.
People are afraid of the Holy Spirit and want to "play it safe" by rejecting all spirits, including the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit matters in ways that we sometimes don't even realize.
"If you aim for the dirt, you'll never miss." That's depressing, but its the reality for those who have no hope. Christmas celebrates a true hope. This kind of hope never disappoints, because it's not based in us.