The Holy Spirit Sanctifies

God loves to meet people in personal ways. One of the most shocking examples of this in Scripture happens when Paul, formerly known as Saul, is confronted by the risen Jesus. Watch what happened here:

Paul was a man completely lost, blinded by pride, hatred, and religious zeal. Christians assumed that he was beyond hope. Yet Jesus did not reject him because of his sin. Instead, He called him by name, confronted his spiritual blindness, and began a powerful work of transformation through the Holy Spirit.

In his life, we see the beauty of sanctification, the process of being made holy and righteous in God’s sight. For Paul—and for us—this is an ongoing journey of daily reliance on the Spirit.

Paul’s story shows that God is not offended or intimidated by your level of lostness. The Spirit meets you right where you are and begins the work of sanctifying your life as you learn to follow Jesus.

Just like Paul, your past does not disqualify you from encountering God and being used to impact others. So be encouraged! The Spirit is working, shaping you into someone holy and righteous.

Reflection:

Do you believe that your story can reveal God’s transforming power? Where is the Spirit shaping you to become more like Jesus?

Are there things like fear, pride, distraction, or past hurt that may be clouding your ability to see God working in your life? What areas of your life need the sanctifying work of the Spirit to encounter Jesus in a deeper way?

Prayer:

Jesus, thank You for meeting me where I am and beginning Your sanctifying work. Expose any spiritual blindness in me and help me to rely on Your Spirit daily.

View the full clip of Paul’s encounter with Jesus here.