The procedure of the operation
of the Holy Spirit in us is first to create in us a longing, causing us to be
dissatisfied with our current life; for the start of retrogression in one’s
spiritual life is satisfaction, whereas the commencement of progress is
dissatisfaction. The Holy Spirit does the work of emptying before He does the
work of filling. God hollows us out in order to then fill us. Hollowing out is
God’s means, but filling up is God’s end. For the purpose of emptying us, the Holy
Spirit will allow us to meet difficulties. All these difficulties are arranged
by the Holy Spirit to lead us to deeper seeking. The victory at Jericho cannot
be used to fight against the next and smaller city of Ai. We cannot use
yesterday’s huge victory to fight today’s small battle. Past experience is not
sufficient for present need. God never asks us to eat yesterday’s manna.
“Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life” (Prov. 4.24)
