The Journey To Oasis

Hasn’t everyone treated the Holy Spirit like one of those Magic 8 Balls we played with as kids?

I mean we all have asked questions expecting immediate and definitive answers to many issues when, in fact the answer itself is progressive. The answer takes some inward work, a heart change or even some outward work such as self control. And yet we want immediate results, instant gratification and pop culture responses.

I wonder what would happen if we actually tried using the Magic 8 Ball instead of waiting on the Holy Spirit.

I desire to live my life in God’s will. So, Magic 8 Ball am I living my life within God’s will?
Magic 8 Ball: Concentrate and Ask Again
okay…eyes squeezed shut…am I living my life within God’s will?
Magic 8 Ball: Outlook Not So Good

I would like to stop working at a job and devote my time to serving in ministry. How’s that looking Magic 8 Ball?
Magic 8 Ball: Reply Hazy, Try Again
I just want to quit my job!
Magic 8 Ball: My Sources Say No

After asking these questions of the Magic 8 Ball, I’m not convinced that the answers are any clearer or better or faster than what the Holy Spirit convicts in us, works through us and comforts our hearts.

For some reason, we have forgotten that most of the time, the progression of working and thinking through an issue is the answer. We forget that our relationship with God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit is somewhat interactive. It is not always about receiving some divine inspiration, sometimes it’s about giving when in pain and learning from our sins and how to love others as God loves us. It’s not magic and it doesn’t appear to be immediate. But it is for our benefit and for us to glorify God with.

So once again, Magic 8 Ball, is my future hopeful?
Magic 8 Ball: Ask Again Later

Great…out of all the Magic 8 Balls, I get the one with attitude.