proof positive and proof negative
"Prove the world wrong." —John 16:8
The Holy Spirit proves "the world wrong about sin, about justice, about condemnation" (Jn 16:8). In effect, the Holy Spirit proves that those living for the world's pleasures are fools who have missed out on the meaning of life. When people are shown to be fools, they either repent or reject those whom the Spirit has spoken through in convicting them of their foolishness.
When the Holy Spirit worked through Paul and Silas to prove the Philippian jailer wrong about the need for suicide and the meaning of life, he and his household reacted positively to the Spirit, believed in Jesus, were baptized, and saved (Acts 16:33). When the Holy Spirit worked through Paul in driving a demon out of a girl, this put an end to a fortune-telling business which exploited this girl. The bosses of this occult business were proven wrong about life and business. They reacted negatively to the Spirit of truth and had Paul and Silas arrested, beaten, and thrown into maximum security (Acts 16:22ff).
Humble yourself and let the Holy Spirit prove you wrong about your lifestyle. Then let the Holy Spirit prove others wrong through you. You will be privileged both to lead others to Christ and to suffer for Christ.
Prayer: Father, correct me repeatedly and sternly, if necessary.
Promise: "I tell you the sober truth: it is much better for you that I go. If I fail to go, the Paraclete will never come to you, whereas if I go, I will send Him to you." —Jn 16:7
Praise: St. Augustine did not see the fruit of his labors in his lifetime but sowed the word of God even so.
Reference: (Help the Holy Spirit convict the world by teaching the Bible. Order our audio or video tapes on the How to Teach the Bible series. Our six tape audio series starts with AV 117-1. Our three part video series starts with V-117.)
Nihil Obstat: Reverend Giles H. Pater, October 17, 2002
Imprimatur: †Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, October 21, 2002