Good Boy!

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Gal 3:5 I ask you again, does God give you the Holy Spirit and work miracles among you because you obey the law? Of course not! It is because you believe the message you heard about Christ.  (NLT) 

“Good boy!” Exclaimed the lady as she patted the head of the object of her affection.  I wouldn’t be offended so much if it was a dog.  Instead, it was her husband.  


He was not amused. 


Does God bless you with His presence and blessings just because you’ve been a good boy or good girl?  Do you have an image of Him leaning down from His throne in heaven to pat you on the head?  I hope not. 


Paul tells us that the Holy Spirit, (that is the third member of the Trinity, God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit) isn’t allowed into our lives because we are being good boys and girls (aka - obeying the law).  


He is allowed because we believe that Jesus came to this earth, born of a virgin.  That He lived His life among us, with every opportunity to sin - but didn’t.  Gave His life on a cross to save us from our sin and death.  Rose from the grave, alive forevermore.  Ascended to heaven where He intercedes for us every moment of every day.  


In High School, I had a friend who was let’s say, less than reputable.  He wasn’t a criminal, most of the time.  Just fun-loving and reckless.  His family loved having me around because I usually kept him out of trouble.  Our relationship wasn’t built on who was better or nicer.  It was a brotherly love that expressed deep care and friendship for each other.  


With Jesus, our relationship isn’t built on our good works.  If that was the case then one day Jesus would love you and the next day (the day you really messed up) He wouldn’t.  Jesus loves you regardless of your actions.  That isn’t to say He doesn’t care about them, because He does.  He gave His life because He loves you so much, so your acts of rebellion against God (sins) would be forgiven AND you can live with Him forever in heaven. (There’s more, but I try to keep these blogs short.) 


PRAY:  Dear Jesus, I want to know You.  Please allow the Holy Spirit to teach me, lead me and help me every day.  I love You and I know that You love me.  In Jesus' name, I pray.  AMEN.  


Photo by Wade Austin Ellis on Unsplash


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