by Cindy Phillips
Wind is one of those things we cannot see, yet we can clearly see its effects. We can hear it through the trees, feel it against our face, and watch it move the clouds or bend the branches. The wind reminds us that something can be real and powerful even when it cannot be seen. Scripture often uses wind as a picture of God’s power, presence, and Spirit.
In Genesis 1:2, we read, “And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters.” The Hebrew word for spirit used here can also carry the meaning of wind or breath. From the very beginning, we see God moving over His creation, bringing order and life where there was emptiness and darkness.
We see another powerful example in Exodus 14:21, when Moses stretched out his hand over the Red Sea and “the LORD caused the sea to go back by a strong east wind.” God used something His people could not control to accomplish something they could never accomplish themselves. The wind became an instrument of deliverance.
Jesus also used the wind to teach us about the Holy Spirit. In John 3:8, Jesus told Nicodemus: “The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear the sound of it, but cannot tell where it comes from and where it goes. So is everyone who is born of the Spirit.” We cannot see the wind, but we know when it is present. In much the same way, we cannot see the Holy Spirit with our physical eyes, but we can see His work in a person’s life. He changes hearts, gives strength, brings conviction, provides comfort, and produces spiritual fruit.
We see this dramatically at Pentecost. Acts 2:2 says, “And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind.” The Holy Spirit came upon the believers, and their lives were changed.
But Scripture also reminds us that wind can represent trials and storms. In Mark 4:37–41, Jesus and His disciples were caught in a great storm. The wind and waves were so violent that the disciples feared for their lives. Yet Jesus stood and commanded, “Peace, be still.” Immediately, the wind ceased.
Sometimes God calms the storm around us. Other times, He gives us the strength to remain faithful while the wind continues to blow. Perhaps that is where we need to be encouraged today. You may not be able to see what God is doing, but that does not mean He is not moving. The wind may be invisible, but its effects are undeniable. Likewise, God’s presence may not always be visible to our physical eyes, but we can look for the evidence of His work. When the winds of life begin to blow, remember the words of Psalm 46:1–2: “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear.”
The next time you feel the wind against your face (which will probably be today!), let it remind you God is still moving. His Spirit is still working. And even when you cannot see Him, you can trust Him.