As we live in the light of the Empty Tomb, we’re exploring how a risen Savior transforms how we live in the world each day. Here is the fourth of five lessons:

IN WORD Leave it to God to exercise His perfect wisdom. Somehow, we thought that a God who is Spirit might give us a salvation of the flesh. But the One who bears children must bear children in His likeness. It’s the way of genetics—physical or spiritual. Brought into a spiritual kingdom—though its spiritual nature encompasses body and mind, as well—we must learn of its culture. You cannot expect to prosper in another country without learning something of its customs and speaking its language. So it is with the Kingdom of God. We must be immersed in its culture and come into its character.
The means for doing this is the Spirit of God. Becoming wise in the ways of the Kingdom is like putting on a set of strange, new clothes. We look different and we feel different. This is no illusion; we are different. And we can take comfort in the fact that while a multitude of Christians—only God knows if they’re genuine or not—are content with a superficial spirituality, God has called us to go deep. The Cross is our holy invitation.
We are not saved for superficiality. We are beckoned into the wisdom that underlies the foundation of this universe, called to understand its purpose, its dynamics, its direction, and its needs. The invitation is more remarkable than we might think; it is a summons to participate in the works of God.
IN DEED The fourth lesson of wisdom from the Cross is this: Never be afraid to go deep. The privilege of the believer is to share in the deep things of God. The Cross was a secret mystery from before the beginning of time, but now it is revealed for our glory (2:7). We are co-laborers with Him, sharing in His likeness! All creation must marvel at the sight. Never be content with staying on the surface, and never assume you’ve learned enough. God is deeper than most people know. Dive into the depths of His wisdom. “The Holy Spirit of grace desires to disturb your sleep. Blessed are you if you awaken.” – Lars Linderot (in “Walking with God” by Chris Tiegreen)

In Jesus’ coming, we have something that the Old Testament people of God longed for – the Holy Spirit. No one had the Spirit continuously, and only the prophets and a few others had short periods where the Spirit was present. But now, all who are in Christ have the Spirit continuously present. Take time to read John 16-17, Romans 7-8, and Galatians 5 this week and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal Himself more and more each day, filling you with His counsel and power. It is guaranteed (Ephesians 1) to change your life! Have a blessed week! - from Singapore, Pastor Sam