Dear Ones:
How expectant are we of God’s intervention in our lives and those for whom we pray? Perhaps the answer lies in the lack of knowledge of God, and of His will and desire. Another reason has to do with knowing the present need as it truly is.
When Isaiah penned the words, “…until the Spirit be poured upon us from on high, and the wilderness be a fruitful field, ” it was with the back drop of palaces being forsaken, …the forts and towers shall be for dens for ever, a joy of wild donkeys, and a pasture of flocks…” (Is. 32:14-15). What a hopeless situation, and one in which only God can give the new beginning. But how does one have “hope” and live a life of expectancy in the mercy and goodness of God, in light of such circumstances? It is in searching and knowing the scriptures, and there, finding out what the will and desire of God truly is. How shall we trust Him specifically if we do not KNOW what He will do?
The more one studies Scripture, and especially with regard to His dealings with Israel, the more one understands that His purpose is to truly visit us, to reveal Himself to us, to meet us in our need. Again, true Christianity is not a religion, but a relationship, where the Eternal God has come to meet the fathomless needs of the heart and soul. The question is simply: Can we believe Him to do so? And are we so intent in our quest that we live “on tippy toes” of expectation? We do not truly BELIEVE, until we truly RECEIVE, …first by faith, and then, to see it accomplished, and revealed.
In Jesus’ parable of the father who is asked by his son for bread, a fish, and/or and egg, for his food…the Lord makes it plain that a true father will give to his son that which is needful for his sustenance, and well-being. It is only too natural. And then He adds this: “…If ye then being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how MUCH MORE shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask Him?” (Luke 11:13) If ever there was a reason for which God will give His Holy Spirit to come and live within the heart, or meet the need of the moment, it is revealed in this parable. The basis is the goodness and faithfulness of God, not to mention the greatness of the love of a “good” Father for his son.
So, again, the question…”Can we believe God to give His Holy Spirit, to pour out His Spirit from on high?” I believe that we can, if we will.
Love, Dad