The Holy Spirit is not merely a mystical presence but the very breath, wisdom, and power of God working in and through believers. Isaiah 11:2 offers one of the clearest biblical outlines of the Holy Spirit's attributes, describing seven distinct manifestations—often called the seven powers or spirits of the Holy Spirit. These powers were fully embodied in Jesus Christ and are given to believers to live godly and victorious lives. Isaiah 11:2 (KJV) " And the spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord. " Let’s look at each power in detail: 1. The Spirit of the Lord This is the foundational presence of the Holy Spirit—the sovereign power of God that rests upon a person for divine assignment. It represents God’s anointing, approval, and presence. ...
Causes and Consequences of Backsliding (Biblical Perspective) Backsliding refers to a spiritual decline where a believer who once walked closely with God begins to drift away from Him. It doesn’t always happen suddenly—it often begins subtly and progresses gradually. The Bible warns against backsliding and also provides insight into its causes, consequences, and the path to restoration. Causes of Backsliding 1. Neglect of Prayer and the Word of God One of the first signs of backsliding is a diminishing interest in prayer and Bible study. A healthy spiritual life is rooted in consistent communication with God and a steady intake of His Word. When these practices are neglected, spiritual strength begins to fade. Hosea 4:6 says, “ My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge. ” Without feeding on God’s truth, believers become vulnerable to deception and spiritual weakness. 2. Pride and Self-Reliance Pride often leads peo...