Messengers of the GospelSample

The Gift Received

Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.

(Acts 2:38 NIV)

Have you ever received a gift from someone you love, but never opened it? That sounds strange, right?

Imagine getting a beautifully wrapped box with a big red bow. You don't know what’s inside, but your imagination runs wild: maybe fine jewelry, tickets to the big game, a new watch, or even keys to your dream car. The possibilities are endless! Instead of opening it, though, you simply smile, say thanks, and carry it around with you, unopened.

You show the wrapped box off. People start to recognize it—it becomes part of your identity. Some even ask, “What’s in the box?” Your answer is always the same: “I’m not sure.”

You carry it for years, talking about it, admiring it, yet never experiencing what’s inside.

In Acts 2:38, Peter told the crowd that everyone who repented of their sins and followed Jesus as Lord would receive a gift. This was no cheesy gift to lure them in. The gift he was talking about was mind-blowing. God was giving His people the gift of the Holy Spirit. The same holds true today—every disciple of Jesus receives the gift of the Holy Spirit. You have the Holy Spirit living in you!

The Holy Spirit is not just a concept or force. He is the third person of the Trinity. He is God’s empowering presence within us, yet many Christians never truly open that gift.

Why?

Here are a few common obstacles:

Lack of understanding – We’re unsure who the Holy Spirit is or what He does.

Pride or self-sufficiency – We think we can live this life in our own strength.

Fear – We’re afraid of what surrender might require or where it might lead.

Just like the unopened gift, when we don’t embrace the Holy Spirit, we miss out on all that God has provided for us.

Here are just a few of the ways the Holy Spirit works in our lives:

• Convicts us of sin (John 16:7-11)

• Guides us into truth (John 16:13)

• Teaches us (John 14:26)

• Reminds us of the words of Jesus (John 14:26)

• Renews our lives (Titus 3:5)

• Empowers us (Acts 1:8)

• Frees us to live in holiness (Romans 8:1-13)

• Testifies that we are God’s Children (Romans 8:15-17)

• Seals our salvation (Ephesians 1:13-14)

• Gives us spiritual gifts (1 Corinthians 12:4-11)

For a long time, I didn’t fully understand the gift that I had been given. I was the person carrying around the box but never opening it. Then, a trusted friend helped me understand the promises and power available to me through the Holy Spirit. That changed everything. Now, I regularly pray for His guidance, strength, and power—and my walk with Christ has deepened in ways I never imagined.

Through faith, prayer, and a heart willing to say yes, we can fully receive all the Spirit has for us. When we allow the Holy Spirit to work in and through us, we experience the freedom, purpose, and joy of walking in step with God’s will.

Reflection:

Did you learn anything new about the Holy Spirit today?

What is one step you can take this week to open the gift of the Holy Spirit and walk in His power? Share the steps you plan to take with a close friend or with your group.