A Probing Question
“Truly, truly I say to you, the one who believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also; and greater works than these will he do; because I am going to the Father.” (John 14:12 NASB)
After relating the shocking, supernatural changes that resulted from the Spirit taking up residence inside the early followers of Jesus, I’m compelled to ask you: Is the Spirit of God being allowed to transform your life? In case you think that’s an irrelevant question, read the opening words of Romans 12:
Therefore I urge you, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect. (Romans 12:1–2 NASB)
Don’t miss the twofold command: “Do not be conformed . . . but be transformed” (italics mine).
Are you honest enough with yourself to answer my question? Is the Holy Spirit being allowed to transform your life?
There are only two possible answers: yes or no. If your answer is no, there are two possible reasons. Either you do not have the Spirit within you (i.e., you’re not a Christian), or He is there but you prefer to live life on your own. I’ll address that in more detail in the days that follow. For now . . . let me urge you to do some soul-searching.
Speaking in tongues or healing the lame or explaining the supernatural phenomena recorded in the early section of the Book of Acts are intriguing subjects and, of course, important. But they can so easily become theological smoke screens, points of debate, and safe places in which to hide from the hard, probing question regarding you and your personal life.
My main concern is the Spirit’s main agenda: Are you allowing Him to transform your life? If not, why not?
Flying closer to the flame may seem risky . . . but it is the best place to be. In fact, it is the only way to live.
Taken from Flying Closer to the Flame by Charles R. Swindoll. Copyright © 1993 by Charles R. Swindoll, Inc. All rights reserved worldwide. Deepen your intimacy with the living God by reading Embraced by the Spirit, an updated release of Flying Closer to the Flame.
