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The Holy Spirit Helps the Willing to Obey February 6
Ask for the Gift;
Comply With the Conditions
“He that keepeth his commandments dwelleth in him, and he in him.
And hereby we know that he abideth in us, by the Spirit which he hath
given us” (1 John 3:24).
A revival of true godliness among us is the greatest and most
urgent of all our needs. To seek this should be our first work. There
must be earnest effort to obtain the blessing of the Lord, not because
God is not willing to bestow His blessing upon us, but because we are
unprepared to receive it. Our heavenly Father is more willing to give
His Holy Spirit to them that ask Him, than are earthly parents to give
good gifts to their children. But it is our work, by confession, humiliation,
repentance, and earnest prayer, to fulfill the conditions upon
which God has promised to grant us His blessing. 18
Jesus says: “Follow me.” “He that followeth me shall not walk in
darkness, but shall have the light of life” (John 8:12). Consider it not a
hard duty. The commandments of God are His expressed character
flowing out of a heart of love in thoughtful plans that man may be
preserved from every evil. They are not to exercise an arbitrary
authority over man, but the Lord would have men act as His obedient
children, members of His own family. Obedience is the outgrowth
and fruit of oneness with Christ and the Father. . . .
When we unmistakably hear His voice and obey, every murmuring
thought will be repressed; and we will leave all consequences
with Him who gave the commandment. If, as we see the footprints of
Jesus, we step in them and follow Him, we shall have love and
power. 19
We are to watch and to pray, to keep our souls in the love of God,
that we may render unto Him willing obedience. We are to cherish
every ray of light received through searching the Scriptures. The
Holy Spirit will work upon the heart of him who is sincere and
earnest in seeking for God’s blessing, and will enable him to resist
temptation. 20
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