GRIEVING GOD

But they rebelled and grieved his Holy Spirit… —Isaiah 63:10

Parental hearts are grieved over the rebellion of a child. None but a parent can experience such pain as they observe their offspring making wrong choices which bring upon themselves the natural consequences of those choices. For a child to make the choice to live a worldly life instead of being a godly follower of Jesus is a heartache no godly parent wants to experience.

Yet, it is quite possible for a follower of Jesus to grieve the Holy Spirit of God as well. We are told in Ephesians 4:29-32, “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” Unwholesome talk, tearing down others, harming those who hear us, bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, malice, not being compassionate, and not forgiving are just some areas that grieve the Holy Spirit of God. Am I practicing any of these?

Oh, that we would not rebel against the Lord’s desires for us. May we not grieve the Holy Spirit, but instead live an obedient life that honors Him.

Dear Father today may my speech and actions glorify Your Name. Please help me to live faithfully though this day, being and doing what You desire. May it be so in the authority of Jesus and by the Holy Spirit’s power.