Spirit-Filled Social Work Bible Study Series - Week 1: Study Questions Understanding the purpose and presence of the

Holy Spirit is not something that comes naturally, but through the study of Gods Word. This kind of devotion to a relationship with God requires time and discipline, two things that Social Work students feel overwhelmed by! In the demanding lives that Social Work students lead, making time and modifying schedules for a quiet time or Bible study may seem nearly impossible. However, it is possible to spend 7-15 minutes daily for one week. Take the challenge and find a buddy to hold you accountable to your commitment! What is the biggest obstacle you face in resisting the Holy Spirit? Is it doubt? Fear? Confusion?

In John 14:16-17, Christ identified and confronted those who do not understand the presence and purpose of the Holy Spirit. As part of the Holy Trinity, Christ was familiar with the ways of the Holy Spirit. Please read this passage and fill in the following blanks to familiarize yourself with Christs statement: the Holy Spirit is known as the Spirit of Truth (v._______). the world rejects the Holy Spirit because it does not know Him (v._________). the Holy Spirit will abide with you and in you (v._________).

We all are or have been at that point. So many churches and Christian groups can be found at one end of an extreme in this area. There are those who overdramatize the Holy Spirit, whereas others underemphasize and do not acknowledge, understand, or seek answers about Him. Why? 1. Some are not aware of the Holy Spirit (Acts 19:1-3). 2. Others are resisting the Spirit in their life (Acts 7:51). Even though we do not want to admit that there are Christians living a Spirit-less and sin-filled life, the reality is, they are. We live in a world where Christians are in bondage to the very same issues that nonbelievers struggle with, such as: lust, idolatry, pride, etc. In order to live victoriously as Spirit-filled Christians in Social Work, we want to learn how to understand and respond to the Holy Spirit. Perhaps these tips from Pastor Craig Groeschel of LifeChurch.tv can help: The Holy Spirit comforts you when you are hurting. He is known as the _______________________. He will abide with you forever and provide guidance throughout your life. He is also known as the _____________________________________. (See John 16:13 & Isaiah 30:21) The Holy Spirit convicts you about sin in your life and the paths you should choose. (See John 16:8)

Heavenly Father, I come before You and pray that the presence of the Holy Spirit will be with me as I study Your word. I pray that You would use the Holy Spirit to comfort, counsel, and convict Christians in Social Work. When I look at my life and career, I want to be known for being a Spirit-filled Christian. I thank You in advance for filling my life and pray that in the weeks to come, I would experience the Holy Spirit in ways like never before. I thank You for being in my life! In Jesus Name, amen.

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