Nougat 13

If God’s Spirit dwells within, then what is manifested without testifies to the presence of God’s Spirit. Consider today’s Holy Nougat

“If we claim we have no sin, we are only fooling ourselves and not living in the truth.” 1 John 1:8 NLT

Understanding that God’s Spirit IS Truth and points us TO Truth means that we have to confront our sins. For even having claimed Jesus as Lord, doesn’t make us sinless. In fact, the temptation ante is increased; but by God’s Spirit we can sin less. There’s salvation worth of difference right there. Now we are clear – denying our sins rebuff God’s Spirit; but that’s not the only way, as sin offends God’s Spirit (but there’s room for God’s Grace!)

So let’s consider a few sins that may cripple us spiritually and offend God’s Spirit of Truth. And while we’re at it; we may also identify ways to deepen our relationship with God’s Spirit.

1. Denial

I recall sharing some time back my brother’s thesis – when we believers stop believing, even temporarily, we are the Fools of Psalm 14. For, he argues, we KNOW God and God’s Word. We have proven God and know that as Truth, God honors God’s promises. Yet we give in to doubt, by wondering whether God hears, cares or will answer. We give God ultimatums like King Saul, then wonder why God seems unresponsive. When we buy into the ‘God doesn’t answer people like me’ attitude, we’ve bought into a Lie. And that’s denying God’s Spirit.

1b. Soaking in God’s Word

We hide God’s Word in our hearts to keep us from sin (Psalm 119). If all we do is hide it and not revert to it, that’s an exercise in futility. If, rather When Life presents us with curveballs and strenuous circumstances; it’s time for God’s Word. There’s a Word for just about any type of situation we encounter; whether for encouragement, admonition, challenge or even healing. We can ASK God’s Spirit to lead us to the right Word of Truth.

2. Independence

Far often we also buy into the lie that we are independent of God. We might not say it in so many words; or even recognize that that’s what we’re doing; but most of us land in that trap from time to time. God wants to be in fellowship with us. That involves our realizing that we ARE dependent upon God and not ourselves or others.

2b. Dependence

Rather than trying to Be God and solving the world’s problems (including our own) by ourselves; God desires that we consult, invite before acting. Many a problem could be avoided or minimal if we allowed God’s Spirit to take the lead. The Truth is – God’s in charge; not us. Let’s allow God’s Spirit to lead us with that Truth

3. Doubt

It is so easy to fall prey to doubt and fear about God. When we pray and the answer is No; when Violence continues (seemingly) unabated and when God seems distant or silent; it is easy to assume God has abandoned us. Worse yet, we assume that we have been forsaken and lose sight of God in our story.

3b. Encouragement

Psalm 103 begins with David choosing to bless God and count his blessings. We can ask the Spirit to remind us of past blessings and use them to encourage ourselves. We can even be honest enough to say to God, I believe. Help my unbelief. Or, become as persistent as the widow seeking justice. And, when all else fails, let’s invite God’s Peace to keep us going. We can also, by the leadership of God’s Spirit, find others to encourage us and uphold us in prayer. It makes a world of difference.

So my fellow believers, if we have been guilty of any of these recently; it’s time to seek God’s forgiveness. Name it, confess our sins and repent of it. Then ask God’s Spirit in to keep us, holding firmly to yet another Truth – when we confess our sins; God WILL forgive and cleanse us.

Have a blessed day.

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May all we seek be found in Christ