Tuesday, September 3, 2013

Gift Return?

During this past Sunday's sermon, Pastor Sam shared a point I would like us to reflect on today (paraphrased here): We can appropriate entire sanctification that allows us to be forgiven from sin, and that empowers us to resist the temptation to sin.

It is curious, and even sad, that Christians do not seek to avail themselves of the ministry of the Holy Spirit. What has Jesus said of the Holy Spirit? "He will take of what is Mine and will disclose it to you." (see John 16:13-15) The gift of the Holy Spirit is the means by which we receive the revelation of God. He teaches; He warns; He loves. To refuse this gift is to refuse the Giver of Life, the Counselor, the Comforter, and the Intercessor.

Our pastor reminded us of a proverb: "God can keep the fresh fish in the salt sea." If we have received the gift of the Holy Spirit, then He will empower each of us to live a life of holiness and integrity even as we live in a world where sin and duplicity are rampant. There is a Helper who longs to stand at our side. There is no need for us to continue falling into patterns of besetting sin.

Where do you stand today? Is the person and work of the Holy Spirit a reality in your life?

Lord Jesus, You sent Your Spirit to live in us and remind us of all You said and did, for the sake of our soul's salvation and deliverance. Give us grace to joyfully receive Your Holy Spirit into our lives, so that we will be empowered to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions. Amen.

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