And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.
Ephesians 4:30, ESV
What does it mean to grieve the Holy Spirit of God? Being set apart by God, we are supposed to act and speak differently than those who are not of God. That means we should not act and talk like those who aren’t a part of the faith. I used to feel a little uncomfortable when old friends would act differently around me when I began seminary because I didn’t want them to feel uncomfortable around me. Sadly, this was more out of my own lack of mature faith than others. Now, don’t get me wrong, I don’t believe that I am truly better or have it all together, but I am different. Sometimes, that old Adam creeps in, but I don’t feel comfortable because it makes me feel off. In these times, I quickly repent. It is the Holy Spirit’s movement that causes me to desire to correct this in my spirit. To grieve the Holy Spirit is to resist and seek to fit in with the ways of the world. When we walk in the redemption promise, we are reminded of the reality that we have been sealed by God as His own and set apart as holy, not because of our actions, but because of His promises. These promises will come to fulfillment on the day of redemption. It is for this reason that we are continually called to seek after Him and be prepared to follow His guidance.
Let us pray. I thank you, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, your dear Son, that you have kept me this night from all harm and danger, and I ask you to protect me this day also from sin and every evil, that in all I do today, I may please you. For into your hands, I commend myself, my body and soul, and all that is mine. Let your holy angel watch over me, that the wicked foe have no power over me. Amen.