Jeremy and I were asked to lead a youth Sunday school class
yesterday morning. The regular teacher told us that they had just been talking
about the Holy Spirit, and requested that we share how we knew when the Holy
Spirit was speaking to us.
I rattled off some sort of coherent response… I think. But as the service and day went on, I continued to think on the question. How
do I know the Holy Spirit is speaking to me? How to I feel His presence? What
makes His direction clear to me?
Finally, I put all the pieces together and connected the
dots-
I was left with only two words.
Comfort.
Peace.
How do I know that we are in God’s will? I have comfort and
peace about our decisions.The Holy Spirit has consistently manifested Himself as peace and comfort in my life.
Most recently He has given Jeremy and I complete peace with the decision to leave our jobs. The actual decision was made months ago but it has become very real for us over the past few weeks. Our last paycheck will be deposited into our account tonight. I have four more days with a family with whom I have spent the past five years.
But still yet, I have peace. I have comfort in the provisions God has given us.
He has give us wisdom in how to prepare for weeks or months without income. He has given us resources and people we can trust. He has given us His promises to provide and work all things for the good of those who serve Him.
I have peace about walking away from secure jobs and income.
I have peace about an uncertain future. I have comfort knowing that we may not
have a lot and we may not have all we need to depart for Spain, but we have a
God who has it all.
I am not concerned with stepping out my “comfort zone” because
with every step forward my comfort zone grows. Little by little God is
revealing His plan and purpose for us. He is providing all we need and
comforting us with each revelation in His will.
“But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father
will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you
of everything I have said to you. Peace
I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the
world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
John 14:26-27
Days like today seem a little surreal. Life is happening
fast and I don’t see it slowing down anytime soon. But peace and comfort are
here to stay. They will lead as we follow the path revealed to us.
