Fire

John writes, “He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire” (Matthew 3:11). The ministry of Jesus began when He received the baptism of the Holy Spirit. Many Christians want to receive the power of God (which is likened to fire), but lack the understanding of how to approach the presence of God. The Bible gives us a framework to understand God, and how to work on and towards our relationship with God.

The most important thing when entering the presence of God is having reverence for God. Those who approach God must regard Him as Holy (Leviticus 10:3). This means that you cannot treat God the same way you treat everyone else; and that when you step into His presence, He must have all your attention and focus. James 4:8 says, “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you”. When you draw near to God, you cannot be half committed, your heart must be fully surrendered. God has given Himself completely so that you can be His, and He will not share you. He wants all of you. 

Another reason why we lack the presence of God in our lives, is because we grieve the Holy Spirit by how we treat others (Ephesians 4:29-32). The Holy Spirit is the one who gives the fire. Every time we mistreat each other or treat God like He is common, we are pouring water on the Holy Spirit fire in our lives.