CONVICTED BY THE SPIRIT
John 15:26–27, 16:7–15
When it comes to my daughters, I am a fortunate man. Of course I am biased, but I am also blessed.
The oldest, at 19, is gifted in theater and acting. The youngest, at 14, is business minded and industrious. She is also quick to help, even when you do not ask for it.
For instance, I try to avoid carbs, but as you know a lot of good foods contain carbs. My 14-year-old is readily available to let me know what I should and should not eat. Her steady, piercing eye gazes at my dinner plate, and her discerning commentary is always provided.
At face value it can be quite annoying, but I know she has my best interest in mind. On a much larger and eternal scale the Holy Spirit is given to aid us in our Christian journeys. For the next few sessions we will explore the roles and blessings of the Holy Spirit.
Jesus sends the Holy Spirit to us. (15:26–27)
We must not forget the Holy Spirit is God. Unfortunately, He is often the most neglected member of the Trinity. Christ reminds us one of the primary responsibilities of the Holy Spirit is that of a helper. When seeking to live a Christlike life, we are painfully aware we need help. Our help can come in ways that make us uncomfortable.
The Holy Spirit convicts us of sin. (16:7–11)
One way the Helper is evident in our lives is His ministry of convicting believers of sin. Without this help, our fellowship with the heavenly Father would be strained. God is constantly pursuing His children and a close relationship with them. The Holy Spirit enables us to see where we fall short through sin, but He also shows the beauty of God’s holiness and righteousness.
The Holy Spirit guides us in the truth. (16:12–15)
The Helper aids us every step of the way. He is the Comforter in times of sorrow, Truth when we need knowledge and the One who convicts when we choose to stray due to sin. Just as He was with the original disciples, He desires to never leave us to navigate life alone. It is a beautiful expression of grace.
Have you ever stopped to thank the Lord for the conviction that comes with being His child? It might sound strange, but that conviction reminds you who you are and whose you are.
No one delights in the conviction brought by the Holy Spirit, but it is essential if we desire authentic growth and discipleship. Jesus loved His disciples enough to rebuke them, and we should be thankful the Holy Spirit does the same for us.
If you are a parent, you understand this concept.
We are His children, and He wants us to both know and experience living in the light of His truth.
Of course the Holy Spirit is not only for the Christian, but also for those who need the saving grace of Jesus for the first time. Without the Holy Spirit drawing a person to repentance and forgiveness, salvation would be impossible.
I still probably enjoy carbs a little too much, but hopefully having the extra set of convicting eyes from my daughter will keep me aware of my choices. So the next time the Holy Spirit lovingly reminds you of your sin, repent and thank the Lord He loves you enough to forgive you.
By Bobby McKay
Pastor of Pleasant Grove Baptist Church in Brookhaven, Mississippi
