There are several ways the Holy Spirit has been described in scripture.  Here are five descriptions:

As Wind

On the Day of Pentecost the Holy Spirit came suddenly as a “rushing mighty wind” (Acts 2:2-4).  This wind—the Holy Spirit—filled the whole house where believers were gathered together for prayer; and they were filled with the Holy Spirit.  Thus we see that the Holy Spirit, just like the wind, is invisible, mighty, and awesome.  And even though we may be unaware of it, He still is moving all over the world.  He rushes in to fill and empower every heart that is prepared by prayer.  I believe He makes His presence especially powerful to those who gather together in one accord.

As Water

In John 4:13-15 and in John 7:37-39 we see that Jesus offers living water to all who thirst.  This living water in fact was and is the Holy Spirit.  He is described as such because we can take of His spirit and drink Him in as water, and He will powerfully move and flow in us as an artesian well that will never run dry and will satisfy and sustain us forever.

Water is also used to cleanse.  The scripture speaks of the water of the spirit of God who works out His cleansing power by the Word of God and by the blood of Christ (Eph. 5:26; Titus 3:5-6).  Thus the Holy Spirit is poured out as cleansing water on all that believe.  He works to make every dirty spot clean (Ezek. 39:29; Titus 3:6).

As Oil

Oil was used to keep the lamps burning in the holy place of the tabernacle so that the glories of Christ portrayed in the articles could be seen.  Therefore, the Holy Spirit, symbolized as burning oil, helps us to see the glories of Christ and lights the way to a closer walk with Him.

Oil is also used for food and for healing.  Thus the Holy Spirit will work in us as oil to sooth our pain, and also to satisfy our hunger for the things of God.

 As a Seal

In the New Testament the Holy Spirit is described as a seal of the believer’s redemption (2 Cor. 1:22; Eph. 1:13; 4:30).  This suggests to us that the Holy Spirit has been given to us to make us feel safe and secure—so that we know without a doubt that we are saved.

As a Dove

When Jesus was baptized, the Holy Spirit descended upon Him in the form of a dove (Jn. 1:32).  This description of the Holy Spirit is one of my favorites.  For with this vision of Him I know that He is gentle, pure, graceful and beautiful—which makes me feel at peace and quieted in my soul.  I love to gaze upon His beauty.  He is so pleasant to be near.