What Hotel Staff Taught Me About Holy Living

We spent four days in Dhaka, Bangladesh recently. Security concerns for us, as foreigners, made it impossible to leave the hotel other than for our express reason for being there—to meet our daughter and son-in-law’s sponsored World Vision child—so we hunkered down within the facility’s four walls.

The hotel staff treated us like royalty. Desk attendants asked, “Do you have everything you need?” whenever we walked through the foyer. Several waiters hovered nearby and watched with eagle eyes to ensure our needs were met at mealtimes.

One afternoon, we sat on the deck of the outdoor pool (which was surrounded by high walls) to play a card game. Mosquitoes began to buzz and bite as afternoon rolled into early evening. Within minutes, a hotel employee appeared carrying an insect repellant coil. He lit it and set it nearby so we could play our game in peace.

When time for our departure came, the marketing director said goodbye and handed me her business card. “Please come again, and don’t hesitate to call if I can help you in any way in the future,” she said.

The hotel staff were committed to our safety and comfort. Their concern for our well-being showed, and their efforts achieved the desired result. They’ll have our business should we ever travel to Dhaka again.

The weekly online Bible study of which I’m a part recently memorized 2 Peter 1:3,

“As we know Jesus better, his divine power gives us everything we need for living a godly life. He has called us to receive his own glory and goodness!”

Do you see where I’m going with this?

Just as, in the physical realm, the hotel staff supplied us with everything needed for safety and comfort, so the Holy Spirit works in the spiritual realm to give Christ followers everything needed for godly living.

Wisdom. Check.

Courage to face the unknown? Check.

Peace to replace worry? Check.

Forgiveness when we blow it? Check.

A sound mind rather than confusion and chaos? Check.

Written instructions for godly living? Check.

The power to say no to temptation? Check.

Discipline when our behavior needs to change? Check.

Freedom from shame? Check.

The ability to love and forgive those who hurt us? Check.

The Holy Spirit knows exactly what we need to live holy, fruitful lives. And from the abundance of His limitless resources, He sees to it that our needs are met. If we feel as though we’re lacking something, we need only to ask and then be open to receive.