[JMJ333]

The same question, I would think, could be made concerning any other gift from God; i.e. why, if this promise is true, are some beneficiaries apparently ignorant of their gifts. The Holy Spirit teaches. Teaching is a process; it takes time. It isn't (usually) "poof" and voila, instant complete illumination.

Actually, somethings are "poof" from God. Conversion is. For ten years I was an atheist, and then "poof" in one instant I was no longer.

[HiTech RedNeck]

In this wise, I agree with the "poof" theory (it's getting late, we're getting punchy). One moment an atheist or agnostic, the next a believer. What is not "poof" is all the additional understanding that comes with the territory.