The Fire Was Never Gone

When we light incense in church, the charcoal first bursts into a strong flame. It catches quickly, burns brightly, and draws our attention. Then, after a little while, everything becomes calm. The surface looks still, and it may seem as though the fire has faded away.

But when you lean down and gently blow on it, the coals begin to glow red again. The fire was never gone. It was hidden beneath the surface, waiting for breath. That is why the deacons keep the censer moving, allowing the air to pass through so the hidden fire remains alive.

What a powerful image of the work of the Holy Spirit in us.

There are seasons in our spiritual life when the fire feels strong and visible. We feel inspired. Prayer comes easily. Worship fills our hearts with joy. Faith feels alive and bright.

Then there are other seasons when the fire becomes quiet. Life grows heavy. Emotions settle. The soul feels still. On the surface, it may seem as though something has faded. Yet deep within, the Spirit of God is still present.

In the Bible, the Holy Spirit is often connected with wind and breath. When God formed Adam from the dust, He breathed into him the breath of life. And when, after the resurrection Jesus came to His disciples, who were afraid and hidden behind locked doors. Once again, He breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit” (John 20:22).

Then, on the day of Pentecost, that holy breath became a mighty wind, filling the house where the disciples were gathered and rested upon them as tongues of fire. In that sacred movement of the Spirit, courage began to rise. Strength returned. The hidden embers of faith began to burn again.

Sometimes that is exactly what we need. One breath from God can awaken what seems quiet within us. One moment of prayer, one word of Scripture, one movement of grace, and the hidden fire begins to glow again.

So if your soul feels still today, do not lose heart. The fire may be quieter than before, but it is still there. Ask the Lord to breathe upon you again. Pray and ask the Holy Spirit to stir the coals of your heart. And the fire will rise. The warmth will return. The light will shine again.