January 21, 2014 - "Rapid Fire"

I went to see a movie with my daughter recently that was very violent and filled with such strong language. I would never see it again, but it had an amazing plot of survival and determination. There were so many times during the movie when I had to close my eyes and look away; and although my heart was breaking, as I knew this was based on a true story, I just couldn't watch. The enemy sought after this small group without mercy and with a vengeance. I could relate. I remembered so many times in my own life where it seemed hour upon hour and day upon day there was no relief from the attack. And while we could all offer our own stories, I want to spend our time today remembering that God knew ahead of time that our battles would be intense. That's why He sent the Holy Spirit. Have you ever wondered why Jesus said it was advantageous that He go away so the Comforter would come? Let's look at this: John 16:7 (AMP) However, I am telling you nothing but the truth when I say it is profitable (good, expedient, advantageous) for you that I go away. Because if I do not go away, the Comforter (Counselor, Helper, Advocate, Intercessor, Strengthener, Standby) will not come to you [into close fellowship with you]; but if I go away, I will send Him to you [to be in close fellowship with you]. Honestly - Jesus, the lamb of God who made our eternal home secure tells the disciples it is good, expedient and advantageous that He return to Heaven. That always blew me away. Why? Consider this - the man Jesus was limited to ONE BODY and ONE PLACE at a time. He knew the day would come when He would be sacrificed as our provision and He KNEW that the remainder of mankind would for the duration of their lives be under rapid fire. And, to make things worse, the attack would be on mankind and not simply one man. While the man Jesus had his limitations, the Holy Spirit is not limited to one location, one person, or one situation at a time. He is the Counselor to a brother in Egypt, while being a Helper to me in addition to strengthening you ALL at the same time. Come on now - that makes me shout! How about this - the Holy Spirit ALSO doesn't limit how many times He offers His services OR what kind He offers unless we are totally walking in open rebellion. Just as Jesus was given, so was the Holy Spirit given and each with a designated purpose as a gift from our Father who knew we would falter without them. So today and from hence forth, never feel abandoned or that the Holy Spirit doesn't have time for your issues or doesn't really understand where you are. WRONG! He is limitless and is our rapid fire guard. Whew, I love this! PK