The Temple of the Holy Spirit

Paul called believers the temple of the Holy Spirit in 1 Corinthians 3:16. What comes to mind when you think of yourself in this way? Is the Lord floating around inside you as He whispers guidance and comfort? Is He seated? Standing? Walking around?

However you picture it, consider the description of the tabernacle to more fully understand what it means to be the dwelling place of the Most High God.

The cloud of His presence fills the Holy of Holies, the innermost room. The spicy fragrance of our Great High Priest’s prayers rises with the smoke of our own as we stand with Him before the altar of incense. An oversupply of nourishment weighs down the golden table in the holy place—the heady odor of frankincense mingling with the tantalizing smell of freshly baked bread. Seven lamps atop the menorah cast out the darkness and flood the room with light. In the outer court, the cleansing waters flow from the laver while the fires of forgiveness, redemption, acceptance, fellowship and peace blaze continually upon the brazen altar.

More than a house

Being the temple of the Holy Spirit means more than living with God the same way we might with another human being. All the forces of salvation, power and eternal life are living and active within us as well. They churn and cry out from the courtyard. They fill the holy places with fire and smoke. They cause His dwelling place to bustle with activity while being centered in peace.

If we manage to grasp what it means to be the Lord’s dwelling place, why shouldn’t we step before the throne of grace with boldness? Why shouldn’t we expect help and favor to flow like a river as we enter into His gates with praise and fall before His altar in repentance?

We draw near to gain insight and nourishment and He sweeps the veil aside to awe us with His presence. Does He hear us when we pray? Oh yes, and sets in motion all the fire and water, light and darkness, fragrance and fury necessary to give birth to the answer.

The Israelites carried the tabernacle with them wherever they went. When the cloud of the Holy Spirit directed them to move, they cried out, “Rise up, O Lord! Let Your enemies be scattered” (Numbers 10:35 NKJV). Why shouldn’t we lift our voices with similar confidence?

The ark has taken up residence in tents of flesh and “the Lord is in His holy temple.” Let the earth and all its turmoil keep silence before Him (Habakkuk 2:20 NKJV).

Your turn: When you think about what it means to be the tabernacle of the Holy Spirit, how might that perspective increase your boldness in prayer or ministry? Comment below and let’s start a conversation.