Throughout the book of First John, the beloved apostle provides evidence of whether we belong to Christ or not. Perhaps the most compelling proof, however, is that the Holy Spirit resides within us. The Holy Spirit is not merely a power, a conscience, or a second rate deity. The Holy Spirit is fully God. To have the Spirit residing within you is to have all of God, abiding in your life.
Think for a moment about who God is. Consider the magnitude of His being. He rules the universe. He sustains life. He is the center of reality. Yet by His Spirit, He resides within you. Truly that is astounding. Such a God cannot be hidden. He cannot be overlooked. If He resides within you, there will be clear evidence of His presence! He will not remain mutely silent while you brazenly live your life as you please. He will not look the other way while you rush headlong to disaster. He certainly will not allow you to dishonor His name and leave you unpunished. Wherever God is present; He is active.
What evidence is there that the Holy Spirit abides in your life? Does He speak to you? Convict you of sin? Comfort you when you are in distress? Put words in your mouth as you testify for Him? Enable you to serve God in ways beyond your natural abilities? There are numerous ways to detect the Holy Spirit’s presence in your life. As you examine your life, what evidence do you find?