Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – December 2, 2014
But very truly I tell you, it is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Advocate will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you. John 16:7
Sometimes, I more than a little nervous and afraid when someone I really trust, admire and respect, leaves. When a boss who mentored me well over the years, moved on to a new job opportunity, I felt lost, unsure and exposed in his absence. Or when my pastor was called by God to lead another flock.,I feared no one could take his place. I missed his biblical and practical teaching. But, thank the Lord for the memories and lives led by these mature leaders for the brief time I was with them. They left behind what I needed to move forward in faith and obedience.
The disciples faced a similar dilemma with the departure of Jesus. He was their living example of how to love God and how to love like God. The Lord intentionally invested His rich teaching, His generous giving and His gracious deeds in His raw and ragged followers. In what seemed an abrupt change of course Christ died, came to life and went back to be with His Father. By the work of the Spirit within them, the disciples’ hearts grew fonder in faith, even though Jesus was distant in heaven. Christ had to leave His disciples for His disciples to cleave to the Holy Spirit.
“But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you” (John 14:26).
How are you preparing to leave behind what those you love need from you? Perhaps it’s time to update your will, life insurance or estate plan. Be intentional with your children by educating them in how to give away money prayerfully and responsibly. Maybe you set up a donor advised fund with the National Christian Foundation and have ongoing family discussions about how to invest in God’s Kingdom. Leave behind a rich legacy of loving God and people well. When you go to heaven—leave on earth ideas and actions that help others get to heaven.
Above all, fully embrace what Christ left behind, the Holy Spirit. Depend on the Spirit to educate your heart and mind in the ways of the Lord. Since the Bible was inspirited by the Spirit it is also illuminated by the Spirit. So, as you read the Word of God, ask the Spirit of God to make clear His heart for you. He is your teacher, defender, and reminder of truth. Yes, you are free indeed, when you freely receive what Jesus left behind for you. You are better off on earth, since Jesus went back to heaven. A Spirit empowered life enjoys a new life in Christ!
“The Spirit and the bride say, “Come!” And let the one who hears say, “Come!” Let the one who is thirsty come; and let the one who wishes take the free gift of the water of life” (Revelation 22:17).
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thanks for giving me Your Spirit to fill and empower my life.
Related Readings: Job 33:4; Romans 8:6-11; 1 Corinthians 15:45; 2 Corinthians 3:6; Galatians 6:8
Post/Tweet this today: The Holy Spirit is our teacher of truth, defender of truth and reminder of truth. #wisdomhunters
Additional Resource: 4 minute music video- The road you leave behind: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x6DLsf8VG5Y
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