Everything we say, do, everyone we meet, all we read and watch must be seen as tools in our Master’s hands to train us.

3 for receiving instruction in prudent behavior, doing what is right and just and fair;

Since the Lord Jesus is with us all the time, everything must be seen as instruments in the hands of the Master. We don’t have to wait for judgment concerning what we say; the Holy Spirit convicts us of it right then and there! Matthew 12:36 says, “But I tell you that everyone will have to give account on the day of judgment for every empty [idle] word they have spoken.” What we must remember is that Jesus was referring directly to the Pharisees who had accused Him of driving out demons by Beelzebul (Satan). Those who have not taken the mark of the cross (been saved) will answer for every word and every deed on Judgment Day (Revelation 20:13). Those of us who have the Spirit answer Now to the Spirit. Our judgment at the BEMA (judgment) seat of Christ (2 Corinthians 5:10) is about rewards–it’s an awards ceremony! What we must remember is that the Great White Throne and the BEMA Seat are right next to each other and that God and Jesus are one–yet, three: Father, Son, Spirit. Those who never accepted Christ as Savior will stand before the Father: “Anyone whose name was not found written in the book of life was thrown into the lake of fire” (Revelation 20:15) while those whose name is written in the book of life will hear from their Master, “Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!” (Matthew 25:21).

Jesus being with us all the time through the presence of the Holy Spirit is why we cannot continue in sin for very long. John put it like this, “No one who lives in him keeps on sinning. No one who continues to sin has either seen Him [Jesus] or known Him.” 1 John 3:6.

The Spirit’s conviction may be immediate, but we still live with the consequences of our bad choices (sin). Repentance usually helps mitigate those consequences so that we are not in them as long or don’t have to suffer the extreme consequences. Proverbs 22:3 tells us that “the prudent see danger coming and take refuge [hide themselves in Him as our high tower], but the simple [those who lack judgment and ignore the direction of the Spirit] keep going and pay the penalty.” The sooner we repent and obey, the better our outcome will be. Just know that the Spirit loves you and wants the best for you. It hurts Him to see us make choices that hurt us.

So, let’s not “grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.” (Ephesians 4:30). Instead, let’s “find out what pleases the Lord” (Ephesians 5:10) and do that, instead!

Abba, I want to please You. You are my God! Jesus, I want to please You. You are my Savior. Spirit, I want to please You. You are my Companion, my Advocate, my Helper. Please lead me in the way of righteousness (I know You will) and help me be pleasing to You (I know I already am). Let’s make it all about You. Amen.