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. ...
In Hebrews 13, the author gives final exhortations to believers, urging them to live a life pleasing to God. Verse 15 calls believers to offer a continuous sacrifice—not of animals, as in the Old Testament, but of praise and thanksgiving. Old Testament Sacrifices vs. New Testament Praise In the Old Testament, sacrifices were central to worship. The Israelites offered: ● Burnt offerings (Leviticus 1) ● Grain offerings (Leviticus 2) ● Peace offerings (Leviticus 3) ● Sin offerings (Leviticus 4) These sacrifices were required for atonement, thanksgiving, and devotion to God. However, in the New Testament, Jesus' death fulfilled the need for animal sacrifices (Hebrews 10:10-14). Instead of bringing burnt offerings, believers are called to bring spiritual sacrifices—one of which is praise. What is the "Sacrifice of Praise"? The term " sacrifice of praise " means that praising God sometimes requires effort, sur...