By age 28, my life was filled with what the world offered, but I was empty inside.
I was at a turning point. I could choose to turn to God or continue to reject Him. By God’s grace, I repented and put my complete trust in Christ.
Although far from perfect, God radically transformed and redirected my life through the power of the Holy Spirit. He can do the same for you.
Acts 1:8a describes this experience: “But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you shall be My witnesses.” The power of the Holy Spirit is like dynamite that ignites a hunger for God so intense that every aspect of life is changed. We become bold not passive, stable not fanatical and committed not wavering.
Within the months that followed this experience, my passion and purpose for life became clearer than ever. I then understood Acts 3:19, “Therefore repent and be converted, that your sins may be wiped away, that times of refreshing [revival] may come from the presence of the Lord.”
I experienced this infilling of the Spirit that is seen throughout the Scriptures, a transformed life resulting in a love for God and His Word. It all led to books, articles, speaking engagements and, ultimately, a church.
Like many Christians, I tend to be “safely” conservative when considering the power of the Holy Spirit; however, Scripture clearly supports the miraculous work of the Spirit today.
I’m open but cautious. We need sound doctrine and the power of the Holy Spirit.
It is possible to be “Bible taught,” but not “Spirit led”—straight as a gun barrel theologically, but just as empty. The letter kills, but the Spirit gives life (2 Cor. 3:6).
Don’t get me wrong. Theological and expositional teachings are essential to Christian living, but how often are we encouraged to fast and pray as well as study? How often are we taught brokenness and repentance in addition to translating the Greek language? How often are we taught the surrendered life?
We can sometimes be more concerned about a master’s degree than a degree from the Master.
To see results of the Spirit moving in Southern California, watch this powerful testimony.
Shane Idleman is the founder and lead pastor of Westside Christian Fellowship in Southern California. More can be found at ShaneIdleman.com, and free downloads of his books are available at WCFAV.org. Visit him on Facebook and subscribe to his new podcast.
