CHRISTIAN LIFE, SPIRIT’S ROLE IN

There are three ways in which a skier can get to the top of the ski slope. He can try to walk up on his own, or be pulled up as he holds on to a strap, or he can ride up in the chair lift. This illustration vividly depicts the various ways Christians try to live the victorious Christian life. Some try completely in their own strength; others try to combine their own effort with some degree of dependence on God. But the only way to know true victory in every situation is total dependence on the Holy Spirit.155

A piano sends forth beautiful melodies when played by a concert pianist. But when a piano is banged on by a child, it can send forth horrible sounds. A Christian is somewhat like a piano. They can have beautifully harmonious lives when controlled by the Master. On the other hand, that life can be one of discord when undisciplined and controlled only by self.156

On June 12, 1979, a young man made aviation history when he flew a pedal-powered plane across the English Channel. Taking off from England, he flew for three hours, rarely more than fifteen feet above the water. Finally, after covering twenty-two miles, he landed exhausted on the coast of France. As dramatic as this was, man-powered flight will never be practical. A man simply cannot maintain the necessary energy output for extended flights.

In the same way, no one can live the Christian life pedaling on his or her own power. It is only through the enabling power of the Holy Spirit that we can consistently live the Christian life.157