How The Holy Spirit Prepares Us

The story of creation in Genesis paints a great picture of God’s transformation of our lives in stages (Day 1-4). Genesis 1:1-2 describes how the earth was without form and void, and how the Holy Spirit hovered over the faces of the deep and the darkness that surrounded. This picture reveals a lot about God’s nature. He brings order from chaos and He often does it to our lives in more ways that we know.

Notice the verse says that the earth started in darkness, emptiness, and without form, much like the condition of many of us at one point. Yet, even in that darkness God’s Spirit hovered. In other words, it’s the Holy Spirit’s presence that marks the start of transformation, even before anything visible changes.

Here is what the days of creation teach us about the Lord’s transforming work in our lives.

The Transformation Takes Place in Stages

Day One: The Word of God Brings Light

On day one, God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. This light wasn’t from the sun, moon, or stars, as those were created later. I believe it was God’s word. Remember, when you are faced with challenges that don’t seem to change, don’t be discouraged. Often, God doesn’t change our external circumstances first; instead, He’ll change our minds through His Word.

I would encourage you to grow your faith in seasons when you’re hoping for transformation. Faith is an important key and it begins when we receive God’s Word. It separates us from the darkness of our reality and fills us with hope and vision.

Take time to embrace God’s Word as your light, even when your circumstances remain unchanged. The light of God’s Word will help you build faith.

Day Two: Formation Through Trials

As we continue in the timeline of creation, we see that God spent time separating the waters from the sky. I believe that this day represents formation. In other words, while the actions you may be taking right now are not bringing about visible blessings or the drastic change you may be hoping for, the discipline is helping to build character and resilience.

Remember, formation often comes through trials, delays, and challenges. God uses these experiences to separate you from emotional instability and build strength within you. Like Joseph, who was sold into slavery and imprisoned, you may feel like you’re going down, but have faith that you’re getting closer to His purpose.

Day two is a painful, but it’s a necessary “day” we must each experience in order to truly grow. Never forget that God is forming you to stand firm, even when circumstances seem overwhelming.

Day Three: Filling with the Holy Spirit

Next, we see that God began to fill what He had formed. The oceans were filled with fish and the land with plants.

It’s the act of being filled with the Holy Spirit that will sustain you when the fulfillment of God’s promises haven’t yet arrived. We see this in the disciples who waited in the upper room for the promise to come. Similarly, we must learn to wait on the Lord and to be filled with Him in order to truly grow through life. Wait for Him.

Day Four: Fulfillment of God’s Promises

On day four we see that God created the sun, moon, and stars. I believe this marks the fulfillment of His Word because what began as light from His spoken Word (day 1) now becomes visible reality. This is a powerful revelation when we take the time to think about what it means for us.

There comes a point when we no longer are sitting patiently waiting for what God promised, but we begin to see it spring before our very eyes. During this exciting season, I would encourage you to not compare your journey or breakthrough to others’ journey. Instead, choose to celebrate the small victories God is giving you and trust that greater things are ahead.

Final Thoughts

We know that creation didn’t take four days, and I believe that God’s work doesn’t stop at “day four” in our lives either. However, it’s important to note that it’s at this point, after breakthrough, that many abandon their pursuit of God.

I would strongly encourage you to continue growing in the Lord and fulfilling His purpose, long after you’ve received breakthrough in the areas you’d been praying for. Our walk with the Lord involves ongoing surrender and trust in Him. I encourage you to stay malleable no matter the season you are in, trusting that God’s best is truly ahead.

Read: How to Hear God Clearly and Daily