The Cold Water of My Resistance
Do not quench the Spirit. - 1 Thessalonians 5:19
As the Apostle Paul ends his first letter to the Thessalonian church, he gives them a how-to-live list to help his recipients become practical in their Christian lives. Interestingly, in the middle of this list is simply, “Do not quench the Spirit” (as if everyone knows what that means). In other words, “Don’t try to put out the fire of Jesus that is meant to grow in you.”
The meaning here may not be all that difficult. This phrase summarizes the Christian life. After our conversion, the work of the Holy Spirit, who is now in us, is to amplify the beauty of Jesus in us. As Jesus becomes more and we become less, change happens. The goal is to move us toward the image of our Saviour, and the Spirit is here to burn away the impurities.
So, there’s a fight going on. The Spirit is like a fire that is destined to grow, and we sinners are inclined to throw cold water on the fire. Because our “old nature” resists change, we often dig in our heels and fight. We get the water bucket.
Just before moving to the cross, Jesus poured his heart out to the Father and then said, “Not my will but your will (Luke 22:42).” Jesus did not throw cold water on the plan. He loved us to the end.
While good works or change is not the foundation of anyone’s salvation (the work of Jesus is), we should want to fan the flame of the Spirit for our good and God’s glory.
Jesus, you are the fire that burns away my garbage and makes all things new. I’m sorry for resisting and wanting to hang on to my idols. Thank you for your persistent love. Please show me again the beauty of the gospel. Cause me to repent.
Song: Change Me