I called my congressman to complain about a law that was harming small businesses. His staff heard my concerns and took notes. He called me soon after and we had a fruitful fifteen-minute conversation. There was no fluff, no pleasantries, no getting to know him or talking about anything other than the matter at hand.
In the same way, if you had a matter of significant
importance, you could gain an audience with the President of the United
States. If you were privileged to sit in his office you would be welcomed so
long as you had valid information to share. If you started rambling or telling
stories about your life or family or talking to the president about vague
topics, or if you just stopped talking, the meeting would be over.
Jesus said, “It is to your advantage that I go away, for if
I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you. But if I go, I will send him
to you” (John 16:7). There are many reasons why it is advantageous to have the
Helper, the Holy Spirit, rather than Jesus here with us. The biggest reason
that I see is accessibility. The Spirit indwells each and every believer and is
not pressed for time or attention. Imagine calling Jesus’ secretary and asking
for a meeting if he were the only man on earth who could help you. Not only
could he be thousands of miles away from you, but his calendar would be filled
up for centuries. He could be on a trip, he could be napping in a boat, he could
be in prison, or he could be dealing with any number of matters that appeared
more pressing than yours.
But the Spirit has no such limitations, and thank God that
Jesus sent him to us! Now we can believe him when he says, “Be still and know
that I am God” (Psalm 46:10). We don’t have to ensure our fifteen-minute block
is chock-full of information, we don’t have to stay on subject. We can approach
the throne of grace with boldness to receive grace and help in our time of need
(Hebrews 4:16) and just sit on the floor of the throne room and be in awe of
our God working all things for good for those who love him and are called
according to his purpose.
This morning as I lay on the floor of the Throne Room of Grace and begged God to hear my prayers through tears because I am poor and
needy (Psalm 86:1), I spent time just considering how he is working in my
brothers and sisters in Nigeria, Madagascar, Nepal, churches in Georgia and
South Dakota, and churches and ministries just around the corner. He’s working
when I’m watching. He’s working whether I'm watching or not.
He didn’t mind that I was saying nothing while just watching him work. He invited me to be still and know that he is God. Jesus purchased this for you when he died for yours sins. He gave it to you when he sent the Holy Spirit. It is our great advantage, so let’s dwell in it.
And as always,
If you derive any benefit from my labours, aid me with your prayers to our heavenly Father. ~ John Calvin
