How To Maintain The Holy Spirit’s Presence Series

HOW TO MAINTAIN THE HOLY SPIRIT’S PRESENCE

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Ephesians 4:30

Key Verse: “And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.” (Ephesians 4:30, KJV)

Supporting Texts: Psalm 51:11, 1 Thessalonians 5:19, John 14:16-17, Galatians 5:16-18

INTRODUCTION:

The Holy Spirit is the seal of God upon every believer, a divine guarantee of salvation, guidance, and empowerment. His presence in our lives is not only a blessing but also a responsibility. Without Him, the Christian life becomes empty, powerless, and directionless. That is why maintaining His presence is one of the greatest priorities for a child of God.

Many people receive the Holy Spirit with joy, but few sustain His abiding presence because of neglect, disobedience, or compromise. David cried out in Psalm 51:11, “Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy holy spirit from me.” He understood that losing the presence of the Spirit was worse than losing wealth, power, or even kingship. The Spirit is the One who makes our walk with God vibrant and effective.

As believers, we must therefore guard His presence jealously. Just as oil keeps a lamp burning, the Holy Spirit keeps the light of our Christian life shining. This message will show us biblical principles on how to maintain the Holy Spirit’s presence, avoid grieving Him, and continue to walk in His power and intimacy.

1. WALKING IN OBEDIENCE TO GOD

The presence of the Holy Spirit is maintained when we live in daily obedience to God’s Word and His instructions. Obedience is the pathway that keeps us aligned with God’s will.

a) Obedience attracts God’s presence (Deuteronomy 28:1-2).

When we diligently obey the voice of the Lord, His blessings and His presence overtake us, and the Spirit finds a dwelling place in our lives.

b) Disobedience drives the Spirit away (1 Samuel 15:22-23).

Saul lost the presence of the Spirit because of disobedience, proving that rebellion and stubbornness make the Spirit depart.

c) The Spirit empowers obedient believers (Acts 5:32).

God gives the Holy Spirit to those who obey Him, and obedience opens the door for greater intimacy and manifestations.

d) Obedience shows love for Christ (John 14:23).

When we obey the Lord, we demonstrate love, and the Spirit continues to abide with us because obedience creates an atmosphere of holiness.

Biblical Example: Noah walked in obedience to God by building the ark even when the world mocked him (Genesis 6:22). His obedience preserved his family and ensured God’s presence remained with him.

2. LIVING A LIFE OF HOLINESS

The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of holiness, and He dwells in a vessel that is pure and consecrated.

a) Holiness creates a dwelling place for God (Leviticus 11:44).

God commands His children to be holy because His Spirit cannot dwell in unclean vessels.

b) Sin grieves the Spirit (Ephesians 4:30).

Immorality, lies, anger, and corruption break fellowship with the Spirit, making His presence withdraw.

c) Holiness brings boldness (Hebrews 12:14).

A holy life enables us to enjoy confidence before God and His Spirit, knowing there is nothing hindering fellowship.

d) The Spirit produces holiness within us (Romans 8:13).

When we yield to the Spirit, He mortifies the deeds of the flesh and empowers us to live righteously.

Biblical Example: Joseph maintained holiness in Potiphar’s house (Genesis 39:7-12). Though tempted, he refused to sin, and the Spirit of God remained powerfully with him, elevating him later.

3. CULTIVATING INTIMACY WITH THE SPIRIT

The Holy Spirit is a Person, not a force. To maintain His presence, we must relate with Him through fellowship.

a) Fellowship builds intimacy (2 Corinthians 13:14).

The grace of Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Spirit keep His presence fresh in our lives.

b) Prayer invites His presence (Jude 1:20).

When we pray in the Spirit, we strengthen our connection with Him and remain in tune with His voice.

c) Meditation on God’s Word draws Him closer (Joshua 1:8).

The Spirit breathes on the Word and makes it alive in our hearts when we meditate consistently.

d) Worship attracts His presence (Psalm 22:3).

The Spirit loves an atmosphere of worship. When we adore God sincerely, His presence fills our lives afresh.

Biblical Example: The disciples in Acts 13:2 ministered to the Lord through worship and fasting, and the Holy Spirit spoke clearly, directing their mission.

4. AVOIDING WORLDLY DISTRACTIONS

The Spirit cannot thrive in a life filled with worldliness, distractions, and carnal pursuits.

a) Carnality quenches the Spirit (1 Thessalonians 5:19).

When we allow fleshly desires to dominate, the Spirit’s influence diminishes in our lives.

b) Worldliness separates us from God (James 4:4).

Friendship with the world is enmity with God, and it chases away the Spirit’s presence.

c) Focus on eternal things (Colossians 3:1-2).