This is one of those parts of scripture that challenges the way we "do church" in our part of the Kingdom of God. In Acts 8, there is talk of persons "receiving the word of God", but not necessarily receiving the Holy Spirit. Peter and John travel to Samaria, lay their hands on these persons, and the Spirit enters them.
In our part of the Kingdom, we still employ the laying on of hands. What we don't necessarily look for are clear and direct indications that the Spirit has been transmitted by this act.
When you were baptized, the pastor laid hands upon you and offered prayers for your life in Christ. At your confirmation, hands were once more placed on your head as the liturgy implored the Spirit to continue to be present in your life. As the years pass, we look for signs that the Spirit is working in you, but at neither liturgy did we stand back and look to see.
The Spirit has been transmitted to you - of that I don't want you to ever doubt. And I in no way wish to imply that our will is stronger than the work of the Spirit. I would, however, acknowledge that we often find ways to silence the Spirit; that at times lack the confidence to act on the Spirit's prodding.
How will the Spirit be active in your life today? When the Spirit does attempt to work its will, how receptive will you be to its attempts?
It is difficult for us to gain confidence in God's presence when we silence the Spirit, refusing to act on its encouragements.
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