Spirit and Soul, Recognizing and Understanding Both

Spirit and Soul

Recognizing and Understanding Both

Eileen Renders

While there are three persons in one God, the Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit, we as humans are said to be composed of three parts, according to Christian theology: body, soul, and spirit. Although the human spirit and soul are distinct, they are interconnected through God, while the soul consists of our emotional and psychological being.  The soul: Our soul holds who we actually are, the personality, our emotions, and thoughts. It is comprised of our sense of awareness, our religious beliefs, our morals and values, and is said to be immortal. The Spirit: It is the spirit that is seen as that part of our human nature that connects with God. It is described as that part of our being and consciousness that engages in a relationship with God. The strength of one’s spirit is measured by the energy and spiritual life that is seen in various beings who are often said to be fully alive through their faith and graces received from God.

The Catholic Bible describes a strong spirit, defined as relative to one’s relationship with the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is said to be the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father and the Son, and who shares equally in their divine essence and glory.

The Holy Spirit is viewed as the presence of God and the source of all spiritual gifts, including those bestowed upon believers who have a deep relationship with God. Those gifts and graces include peace, comfort, strength, wisdom, compassion, and more. These gifts often include longevity, so that we may live out our lives in faith, experience the power of God, and inspire others.

What does the Catholic Bible say about how to recognize someone with a strong Spirit?

God frequently. A spirit that is filled with the Holy Spirit is grateful, obedient, full of joy, and does not continue to sin.

This is so because their values and morals align with their inner peace and resilience. They have strong connections with their Church Community, work to serve God, demonstrate a strong belief, and a life that is meaningful and filled with purpose.

Catholic Verses that are associated with spiritual strength and guidance, filled with the importance of strong faith:

Isaiah 41:10 “Do not fear, for I am with you, do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

Isaiah 40:29 “He gives strength to the weary, and empowers the weak.”

Psalm 28:7 “The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy, and I will give thanks to him in song.”

Ephesians 6:10 “Be strong in the Lord, and His mighty power.”

Philippians 4:13 “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

All of these verses confirm and reassure us that as long as we follow Christ and desire to serve Him, all things are possible.