Thoughts in Worship
Message Magazine's Online Devotional for Sabbath, August 12, 2017
Audio Link: https://www.spreaker.com/user/reachmanyradio/thoughts-in-worship-08-12-2017
This is devotional thought number 50 in our devotional series, “Essentials of Faith.” Our subject is: Growth in Him
Here’s the final question for consideration on this subject: When Jesus returned to heaven to prepare a place for me, what promise did He leave behind?
“These things have I spoken unto you, being yet present with you. But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you. Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. Ye have heard how I said unto you, I go away, and come again unto you. If ye loved me, ye would rejoice, because I said, I go unto the Father: for my Father is greater than I. And now I have told you before it come to pass, that, when it is come to pass, ye might believe.” (John 14:25–29).
Peace!
I take courage that at the time His children were most discouraged, because He was going to be crucified, not going to ascend the Roman throne as they had hoped, and was returning to heaven soon, He gave them the best promises ever. He promised to leave peace with them following His resurrection. He left the promise of His return with them. He promised to leave behind, all the help they could possibly need through the ministry of the Holy Spirit.
I love the Holy Spirit. He is in charge of some pretty miraculous stuff. He convicts us of sin. He teaches us the truth about God and self. He transforms our lives into the image of Christ in all holy living. He empowers us to understand all Jesus taught, and helps us share it with others. The Holy Spirit, whose mind the Father knows, makes intercession for us when we pray. He’s the Advocate, Counselor, Strengthener, Helper, and Standby that Jesus sent to remain with us until He returns. The Spirit represents Jesus and acts on His behalf. The Spirit reminds us of everything Jesus ever taught us.
Do you think we are well taken care of while Jesus is preparing a place for us in bright mansions above? When Jesus returned to heaven to prepare a place for me, what promise did He leave behind? He promised to leave all of heaven’s best resources behind so we can be prepared to meet Him when He returns.—L. David Harris (www.DavidWritesaLot.com)