”Then he opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures.“
Luke 24:45 NIV
I have read and studied the Word of God for many years. I have a Strong’s Concordance, Bible dictionaries, Nave’s Topical study, tried and true commentaries, and so many more. I have used them over the years to help and guide me into an understanding of God and His Word, but nothing gave me the wisdom to really KNOW God. My knowledge of the Holy Spirit was limited and lacking.
It wasn’t until 2008/9, that I invited the Holy Spirit into my journey, and it’s made all the difference. I had years of obtainable knowledge, works and salvation, but it was like driving with the parking brake on, slow with resistance. The Spirit has always been present, but I never really tapped into the potential power He offered. Now I have His wisdom and understanding, and it's unmistakable in my relationship with God--the parking brake is off!
I remember the first time I read God’s Word after “activating” the Holy Spirit—which is just asking or giving Him permission to move in your life to teach, train and move you toward righteousness and submission. It truly is like everyone else’s testimony, “It just began making sense!” Deep-seated questions about who God is were revealed. I read with an insight that could not be trained in seminary (and I’ve been there), or out of any book on my shelf. The Holy Spirit of God has become my authentic teacher. Without God, I'm a foolish, silly, energetic woman. With God, I'm His foolish, silly, energetic woman able to do His good things, with purpose, insight and power.
Does that mean I don’t study? I study and read everyday, because I need to, I don't want to forget. Does it mean I don’t ever look at commentaries? I really enjoy reading and gaining their knowledge. They continue to aid me in my pursuit of God. But reading about how God has inspired others is not the same as experiencing it for myself. It's like teaching with someone else's notes, it's second-hand knowledge, which can be encouraging and helpful for understanding; it just misses that personal "aha."
The Holy Spirit has opened my mind to His Word! It’s like standing in front of an abstract painting with the artist as he explains his brush strokes and the purpose behind each one. Only God can reveal His own Word to us--His children.
He has opened my eyes to see with His insights. A simple accident can be turned into a lesson. A lemon tree can be used to show me I’ve been judgmental. God uses what’s right in front of us to help turn our hearts towards His. Jesus continues to teach with parables, He just uses downloads as His whiteboard.
What first drew me to God back when I was 15, were the words my youth pastor said, “God wants a relationship with you.” It’s a quest worth pursuing. I’m just sharing a short cut, if you need it. You don’t have to wait 30 years to learn how to draw near to God, and to gain His power; just ask the Holy Spirit to take control. He’s waiting….
Are you struggling with those deeper, unanswered questions? Have you given the Holy Spirit permission to teach and lead you?
Father,
You are all that You claim to be—“I Am.” We can see Your creation with our eyes but to fully understand, we need Your help. You reveal spiritual truths to Your children and it makes all the difference. Thank You.
For You alone allow us to call You LORD.
“Therefore I want you to know that no one who is speaking by the Spirit of God says, 'Jesus be cursed,' and no one can say, 'Jesus is Lord,' except by the Holy Spirit.” I Cor 12:3.
You alone allow us to know and understand Your mysterious ways.
You alone have invited us behind the veil—where men of old longed to be.
You are the Giver of all these good things, thank You.
Continue to lead, guide, teach, and reveal as You have offered to do for us, Your children. We’re ready to know, understand, and most importantly—obey.
Thank You, thank You, thank You,
Amen.
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