Rejoicing in the Spirit's Saving Work

Scripture: Romans 8:11 (KJV)

“But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you...he...shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you.”

Personal Reflection

Consider how completely your salvation depends upon the gracious work of the Triune God.

The Father purposes and adopts. The Son redeems and intercedes. The Holy Spirit applies and secures the salvation Christ purchased.

The Spirit's work reaches from our awakening all the way to our resurrection. He convicts us of sin, regenerates our dead hearts, grants repentance and faith, indwells us, sanctifies us, seals us, preserves us, and will one day raise our bodies in glory.

What should be our response?

Worship.

We sometimes spend so much time discussing controversies concerning the Holy Spirit that we fail simply to thank Him for His saving work.

Think about where you would be without His grace.

You would still be spiritually blind. Christ would hold no beauty for you. Sin would remain your master. Scripture would be spiritually lifeless to you. You would possess neither saving repentance nor saving faith.

But God did not leave you there.

The Spirit opened your eyes. He brought you to Christ. He now dwells within you and continues the work of sanctification. And He has not finished.

One day the same Spirit who gave spiritual life to your dead soul will participate in giving resurrection life to your mortal body.

Salvation begins in grace, continues in grace, and ends in glory.

Therefore, rejoice.

The Spirit who awakened you will sanctify you, preserve you, and ultimately bring God's saving purpose to completion.

Contemplation

When was the last time I specifically thanked the Holy Spirit for His work in my salvation?

Puritan Quote

Thomas Goodwin encouraged believers to contemplate:

“the love of the Holy Ghost in revealing and applying these truths.”

Prayer

Holy Spirit, thank You for awakening, regenerating, indwelling, sanctifying, sealing, and preserving me. Keep my heart grateful until faith becomes sight and redemption is complete. Amen.

Application

Spend several minutes thanking the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit specifically for their work in your salvation.