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. ...
The Bible provides profound insight into the causes of poverty, addressing not only individual responsibility but also societal and spiritual dimensions. Scripture teaches that poverty is a complex issue with multiple contributing factors. While personal choices can lead to hardship, the Bible also emphasizes systemic injustice, divine testing, and the moral obligation of the community to care for the needy. 1. Laziness and Slothfulness One of the most frequently cited causes of poverty in the Bible is laziness. The book of Proverbs, known for its practical wisdom, clearly links idleness to poverty. ● Proverbs 10:4 (NIV): “ Lazy hands make for poverty, but diligent hands bring wealth. ” ● Proverbs 6:10-11: “ A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest—and poverty will come on you like a thief and scarcity like an armed man. ” The Bible encourages diligence, hard work, and planning, wa...