In this Names of God reading plan, we are learning more about God by studying the names given to Him in Scripture. Rather than having our writers share their own reflections on these passages, we’ve instead provided research-rich content to aid in your study of each day’s featured name of God, including the background of the name(s), a brief explanation of the character of God emphasized by the name(s), and a reflection question to help you dig deeper into the text.
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Spirit
Ruach (Hebrew), Pneuma (Greek)
Scripture Reading: Numbers 11:24-30, Psalm 51:10-13, John 4:19-24, John 14:15-26, Acts 2:1-4, Acts 10:44-48
Description
The Old Testament contains many references to ruach, the Spirit of the Lord, which was the manifestation of God’s presence on earth. The New Testament uses pneuma for the Holy Spirit, the third person of the Trinity.
In John 4, Jesus tells the woman at the well that God is spirit. He was referring to the time, which has now come, when the Spirit of the Lord would no longer reside in temples built by human hands. Instead, the Holy Spirit dwells inside those who believe in Jesus.
Emphasis
The non-incarnate, or non-physical, presence of God on earth
Reflection
What does this name teach me about God?
Thankful that as a gentile who could not even approach the temple and who had no access to the Spirit, Jesus came and tore down the dividing wall, he tore the curtain away and made it possible for the Spirit to come and dwell in me. Thankful for the encouragement, peace and pricking of my heart. Thankful I am not an orphan but a child of the King!
So good.
As quoted
In scripture, “God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth.” He is present in us. Amen!
Psalm 51:10–13
Yes I want a clean heart and for God to renew in me a steadfast spirit. With God’s Spirit there is peace and life. It feels so good. But we have to remember the overall purpose of having a clean heart ❤️ and a renewed spirit – to the glory of God by teaching others and leading them to Jesus, our salvation. This is something that I will continue to be in prayer about for myself.
Prayer: God, by Your Spirit, give me more opportunities to share Your word and give me the words to say that are full of grace and seasoned with salt.
In Jesus name I pray,
Amen
God remains with us
By dwelling in me, God places Himself in perfect position for availability. He is not only today-present. He is today-available. Available to be seen, known, and worshipped — intimately close, drawing my focus off of myself, if I will just let Him. I need to Access. Request. Go beyond acknowledging God’s presence in Spirit, beyond His ability. I can ask for His wielding, His engagement in my life — my love toward family, my thoughts, my breath, my next move, next word, next hope.
This reminds me I need to live my life for Jesus in a way that shows His light because I do have the Holy Spirit within me!
He is never far away, His spirit lives inside of us, the power that raised JESUS from the dead lives INSIDE of us!