A Spiritual Test

May 23, 2022

A Spiritual Test

By Brooke Holt

“Judas (not Iscariot) said to him, ‘Lord, how is it that you will manifest yourself to us, and not to the world? Jesus answered him, ‘If anyone loves me, he will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him. Whoever does not love me does not keep my words. And the word that you hear is not mine but the Father’s who sent me.’” (John 14:22-24 ESV)

No one loves tests, but we need them to check us throughout life. We have many tests and exams throughout our school years, tests to ensure readiness to serve in a specific field, Covid, and blood tests for cholesterol or diabetes. You know the tests well as everyone over the age of five has experienced them.

Likewise, Jesus seemed to appreciate the need for some spiritual tests to determine if one truly loved him. Throughout chapter fourteen of John’s gospel, Jesus has been teaching his disciples he is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6). Those who receive him receive his Father, and their lives will be characterized by obedience to his commands. Thankfully, Jesus tells the disciples that help will come after he goes to the Father. The Holy Spirit will come, and through that Spirit, they will have the power to remember all that Jesus taught as well as the power to obey and proclaim the kingdom of God. This Spirit will come and dwell within the hearts of those who love Jesus and his Father. That Spirit will empower the believer to walk as Jesus walked and live obedient lives.

Jesus provided a spiritual test for his followers then and now—are you keeping his Word? Are you obeying the teachings of Jesus, which are also the Father’s? Obedience to the Lord speaks much louder than words or attendance in church on Sundays. It is a clear demonstration that one loves the Lord and lives as one of his followers.

The most important question you can ask yourself today is whether you love the Lord and if your life demonstrates that love. Are you walking in obedience to the teachings of God throughout the pages of Scripture?

The Lord loves to change hearts! If you find your life is not characterized by obedience, today is the day to turn back to the Lord, to ask him to fill you again with his Holy Spirit, and then change your heart, your mind, and your actions to reflect him and his teachings today.

Reflection:

How are you doing with this spiritual test? What does the Lord want you to know or receive today? We would love to hear your thoughts in the comments.

Related Resource:

Jesus calls the Holy Spirit a "gift" who will guide us, lead us, and empower us. Yet many believers don't experience the power and presence of the Holy Spirit in their lives. This unique Christian small group Bible study provides a space in which we can explore what it truly means to "walk in the Spirit" on a daily basis. The Spirit-Filled Life small group curriculum centers on a 6-part video teaching series examining the life-giving and creative work of the Holy Spirit in our lives. Begin to experience the gift today!