As the Israelites crossed the Red Sea (on dry ground), entering into the wasteland of the Sinai Peninsula, there would come a point where neither Egypt or the promise land would be in sight. There were no compasses, GPS systems, maps, etc, available to Moses as they left Egypt. All they had was the PROMISE of a supernatural God to lead them to a land "flowing with milk and honey." In the desert the only reference points we have tell us where we've been, not where we're going. It's in the desert, when the promises of God have yet to be fulfilled, our souls are weary from waiting and there seems to be no promise land in sight, that we're easily lured back into the security of our past bondage. How do we get to the promise land? Our only hope in the desert is the pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night - Holy Spirit.
- God has sent to us His Holy Spirit to shepherd us through the deserts of life (John 16:13).
- No matter how dark life may seem, the Holy Spirit is our burning light to guide our path (John 14:26).
- Even in the desert, Holy Spirit is ready to protect us and supply our every need (Psalm 23:4-6).
- Holy Spirit is our divine compass, our heavenly GPS (1 Corinthians 2:12-14).
- Holy Spirit will never leave us or forsake us (John 14:17-18).
A friend recently shared with me of an experience he had learning to drive a car with a manual transmission. His father, growing frustrated after his stalling and jerking the car enough times, told him the car was insured and to take it and spend the day learning on his own. Listen carefully - God will never send you off on your own, no matter how many times you stall, jerk, fail, quit, or mess up. Even when you crash, Holy Spirit will stay right with you, patiently encouraging you and blessing you along the journey.
"Come to me all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my load is light (Matt 11:28-30)."
1 comment:
Eric,
Thanks for the jump start this morning. As a Catholic Christian revert I have come to greatly appreciate the gifts that flow through our separated brethren. The Holy Spirit works where he finds receptive hearts and I see yours as one that is wide open to be led.
Lately I have been deeply pondering the relationship between the pillars of cloud and fire, the covenant rainbow and the bread of life (manna OT), (Jesus NT).
There is the tabernacle and there is his abiding presence.
God bless you!
Post a Comment