Creator, Father, King #254

When he comes, he will convict the world of its sin, and of God’s righteousness, and of the coming judgment.

HAVE YOU EVER SEEN the 1940 Walt Disney classic, Pinocchio?

In the movie, a marionette puppet—the title character—comes to life, thanks to the wishes of his creator, Geppetto, and some fairy magic, setting off on an adventure to become a real boy. Before Pinocchio embarks, the fairy christens a sprightly insect, Jiminy Cricket, to be his “Official Conscience.” When Pinocchio listens to his conscience, good things happen. When he doesn’t . . . well, you’d better just watch the movie.

Of course, in real life, the human conscience is much different than a six-legged insect that hops and chirps. It’s a vital part of every person—Christians and non-Christians alike. It’s a built-in moral compass that allows us to choose between right and wrong (Romans 2:14-15).

Every follower of Jesus, though, not only has a conscience, but something far greater—the presence of the Holy Spirit in his or her life. This takes us from possessing a general knowledge of right vs. wrong to a true biblical conviction of sin, as today’s verse says.

What’s It Mean?

Sometimes, people treat their conscience—or even the Holy Spirit—as “that nagging voice inside you,” like it’s a pesky gnat to be swatted away. That’s a completely unbiblical view.

The Holy Spirit is a wonderful gift. His work of conviction in our lives remarkably displays God’s grace and mercy toward us. Without him, we wouldn’t be aware of our depravity, our need for God, or even many of the daily instances where we transgress God’s laws.

But the Holy Spirit brings all of this to light in the hearts of those who are humble before God. He is not a prosecuting attorney, pointing the finger at us. No! John 16:7 says he is our “Advocate” and our “Helper” (ESV). His job is to apply the work of salvation to us and draw us closer to the Lord.

When the Spirit stirs your conscience, don’t squash his prodding like a pesky cricket chirping in your house. Allow him to work as he moves you toward repentance, spiritual maturation, and greater faith.

Now What?

How is the Holy Spirit stirring your conscience today? Follow his lead!

Did You Know?

Jesus said it was better that he return to heaven in favor of sending the Holy Spirit (John 16:7) largely because Jesus, in his incarnate form, could only be one place at one time. But the Holy Spirit indwells all believers at all times (1 Corinthians 3:16).