The Holy Spirit An Absolute ~ by Dr. C. F. Stanley Luke 24:36-49 ~ And as they were saying these things, He Himself stood among them. He said to them, “Peace to you! ” But they were startled and terrified and thought they were seeing a ghost. “Why are you troubled? ” He asked them. “And why do doubts arise in your hearts? Look at My hands and My feet, that it is I Myself! Touch Me and see, because a ghost does not have flesh and bones as you can see I have.” Having said this, He showed them His hands and feet. But while they still were amazed and unbelieving because of their joy, He asked them, “Do you have anything here to eat? ” So they gave Him a piece of a broiled fish, and He took it and ate in their presence. Then He told them, “These are My words that I spoke to you while I was still with you — that everything written about Me in the Law of Moses, the Prophets, and the Psalms must be fulfilled.” Then He opened their minds to understand the Scriptures. He also said to them, “This is what is written: The Messiah would suffer and rise from the dead the third day, and repentance for forgiveness of sins would be proclaimed in His name to all the nations, beginning at Jerusalem. You are witnesses of these things. And look, I am sending you what My Father promised. As for you, stay in the city until you are empowered from on high.” [HCSB] Salvation occurs when we trust Jesus as our Savior--He forgives us, transforms us, and sees us as righteous. In that moment, we are redeemed, and though we continue to struggle with sin, it is a defeated foe. Then as time goes on, our service, gifts, and love for Him should naturally become greater. Unfortunately, a lot of Christians sit in church week after week, going through the motions yet lacking passion and failing to grow. How is such a thing possible? Tragically, many believers are unaware of the essential ministry of Gods Spirit. The Holy Spirit is a member of the Trinity and co-equal with God the Father and God the Son. The opening chapter of Scripture tells us that He existed before the formation of the earth and in fact participated in creation (Gen. 1:2, 26). Today, He has the critical role of helping and counseling all believers. The Holy Spirit is a gift to every child of God. His presence within us isnt something we have to earn or acquire. Rather, it is a marvelous privilege--by indwelling our hearts, He can guide and strengthen, steering each believer away from danger and into truth (John 16:7-8). Scripture tells us that Jesus came so we could experience a full life (10:10). This is possible only when we listen to His Spirit and obey. Are you experiencing the abundant life Jesus promised? He wasnt talking about happy circumstances but rather the joy and contentment possible through a relationship with Him. If youre lacking in this area, consider your understanding of the Holy Spirit, and pray to be in tune with His promptings.
Posted on: Tue, 18 Mar 2014 07:47:30 +0000
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