At the request of Jesus, the Holy Spirit has been given to us. Do we really know what that means? What does a life lived in the spirit look like?
“But I tell you the truth, it is better for you that I go. For if I do not go, the Advocate will not come to you.” ~John 16:7
A life lived in the spirit is radically different. It is imbued with wisdom, grace, and virtue. It longs to do God’s will and live in accordance with His edicts—and is able to do so because it is under control of the Holy Spirit and does not follow selfish desires.
“And when he comes he will convict the world in regard to sin and righteousness and condemnation.” ~John 16:8
The Holy Spirit is a bit like electricity or gravity—you may not be able to understand or explain either of them but that doesn’t change their reality.
The truth is not subjective—it is objective. At the heart of the Holy Spirit’s work is this reality: God can be denied, ignored, and ridiculed; but come Judgment Day He cannot be avoided. The Holy Spirit calls us to live holy lives and provides the ability to do so and thus overcome the temptations of the world.
“The Spirit of truth, which the world cannot accept, because it neither sees nor knows it. But you know it, because it remains with you, and will be in you.” ~John 14:17
The clamor of the world may deafen the spirit of truth within but cannot drown it out.
Today may very well be the day the Holy Spirit seeks to be heard. Are we willing to listen?
“I have much more to tell you, but you cannot hear it now. But when he comes, the Spirit of truth, he will guide you to all truth.” ~John 16:12
Jesus had so much to teach but knew that in our frail human capacity, it would be too much. Imagine the treasures of Christ! When we are ready to explore those treasures, the Holy Spirit will be our guide. When we are ready to listen we will be overwhelmed by God’s love and the truths of His Son. This will all come from listening to the Holy Spirit who resides within—as promised.
“The Advocate, the holy Spirit that the Father will send in my name—he will teach you everything and remind you of all that I told you.” ~John 14:26
The Holy Spirit is the greatest teacher of all! He teaches the things that will lead to salvation and eternal life if only He has a willing student.
Today commit to being a student of the Holy Spirit and be forever changed!
