We Are Continually Dependent On The Spirit's Ministry Of Renewal

March 14th …………

. Titus 3:5

Theme - We are continually dependent on the Spirit’s ministry of renewal.

Illustration:

DESPAIR

During the Thirty Years’ War in the 17th century, German pastor Paul Gerhardt and his family were forced to flee from their home. One night as they stayed in a small village inn, homeless and afraid, his wife broke down and cried openly in despair. To comfort her, Gerhardt reminded her of Scripture promises about God’s provision and keeping. Then, going out to the garden to be alone, he too broke down and wept. He felt he had come to his darkest hour. Soon afterward, Gerhardt felt the burden lifted and sensed anew the Lord’s presence. Taking his pen, he wrote a hymn that has brought comfort to many. "Give to the winds thy fears; hope, and be undismayed; God hears thy sighs and counts thy tears; God shall lift up thy head. Through waves and clouds and storms He gently clears the way. Wait thou His time, so shall the night soon end in joyous day."

It is often in our darkest times that God makes His presence known most clearly. He uses our sufferings and troubles to show us that He is our only source of strength. And when we see this truth, like Paster Gerhardt, we receive new hope. Are you facing a great trial? Take heart. Put yourself in God’s hands. Wait for His timing. He will give you a "song in the night."

Our Daily Bread, May 7, 1992.

Why are some believers lacking a fresh sense of cleansing, hope, and love? Freedom from sin’s oppression requires a continual application of the Spirit’s grace. Freedom - no word was ever spoken that has held out greater hope, demanded greater sacrifice, needed more to be nurtured, or required the filling of the Spirit. Some Christians have disregarded the renewing ministry of the Spirit. By restoring our mind, body, and emotions, the Spirit recharges us with new vigor. We are continually dependent on the Spirit to resupply our energy, motivations, and visions. He constantly reinvigorates us with a fresh supply of strength, hope, and faith to complete the Father’s will. While vigorous young men may grow weak and tired yet, those who wait on the Lord are renewed like the eagles. They will can run and not grow tired though given tremendous responsibilities. As we cannot live on old food or stale bread, so the Spirit makes the word fresh, nutritious, and satisfying every day. Take time out to experience the Spirit’s refreshments at least three times a day. Pause to read the scriptures and pray over its reviving words. Let the Spirit initiate changes in your thinking. Believe God for constant improvements in your relationships and ministries. He constantly seeks to make all things better. He makes all things new. Otherwise you may find yourself growing weary and heavy-hearted. Resisting the Spirit’s renewal ministry is the beginning of self-destruction.

Question - What are some reasons people grow tired and quit advancing in the Christian life?

Prayer - Lord, help us to look to the Spirit for our renewal.