What's the "Why"?

February 18, 2021

Don’t you realize that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself, for God bought you with a high price. So you must honor God with your body. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 NLT

A characteristic that humans have in common and begins at a very young age is the need to know “why.” Most parents will admit to occasional weariness and frustration with children who constantly want to know the “why” behind a rule or a decision, even if it’s a desirable one. The truth is, though, not many of us outgrow that tendency. We want to know the reason that makes something a wise choice or direction.

Paul addresses the “why” of participating willingly with God’s processes. Just in these two verses he gives three significant reasons:

I am the temple of the Holy Spirit. He lives in me and is God’s great gift to me. When Jesus was returning to heaven, He told His confused and concerned disciples that He would send the Holy Spirit to be with them. He would teach them all things and lead them into truth. That is true today. I have God Himself through the Holy Spirit leading me into truth about myself and my future. I would be foolish to not make the best use of this unspeakable gift.

I do not belong to myself. Immature people are famous for sharing the vibe and often the words, “You are not the boss of me. I don’t belong to anyone.” In the case of a Jesus-follower, that is far from true. I am not my own. My life is not mine to do with as I choose.

I was purchased at a very great price. The willing sacrificial death of Jesus Christ was the price paid for me. The thought that God considered me worth that love and sacrifice is beyond comprehension.

Of course I should cooperate with God’s process and plan! He has invested so much in me. I need to work with Him to complete the process. It is wisdom to honor God with my mind and body and all my choices.

Charles Stanley has famously said, “God takes complete responsibility for a life completely surrendered to Him.” He will do what He has promised when I surrender my whole self to Him.

• Pray: Jesus, the price You paid for me and the gift of the Holy Spirit You have given me is more than enough reason for me to obey You fully and quickly. I choose to do that today in every way. Help me hear You accurately and cooperate completely. Amen.