by Michael Youssef, Ph.D.
God’s Word makes it clear that all humanity is born with a sin nature. Indeed, all mankind wants to live independently of God.
It is our nature to elevate self over God’s authority and rule. To address these tendencies, the Holy Spirit opens our eyes to recognize specific personal sins. For, just as we cannot forgive ourselves, neither can we convict ourselves of the things we need to change. So when the Holy Spirit does this convicting work, there is only one acceptable response: to admit our sin, agree with God’s assessment that what we have done is wrong, and ask for God’s forgiveness.
Forgiveness sets into motion a regenerative work in our hearts. When God forgives us, He bestows His mercy, an amazing peace, an assurance of His love and acceptance, and tremendous joy at having our relationship with Him restored. It is the Holy Spirit who conveys this wonderful presence of God.
With forgiveness also comes a new desire for God. The Holy Spirit opens our spiritual eyes to understand the Scriptures, opens our minds to increasingly comprehend the depth of God’s love, and transforms us into Christ’s likeness. The Holy Spirit empowers us to see God’s plan and purpose, to say no to sinful habits and yes to the attitudes and behaviors that reflect the character of Christ Jesus.
Prayer: God, help me to be quick to respond to Your Spirit, confessing my sins, that I might receive Your forgiveness and deepen my relationship with You. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.
“Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life” (Galatians 6:8).