Now it is God who makes both us and you stand firm in Christ. He anointed us, set his seal of ownership on us, and put his Spirit in our hearts as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come. – 2 Corinthians 1:21-22, NIV
A down payment is an initial percentage of the full asking price given as a promise to pay the rest. Anytime you want to buy a big ticket item but can’t or don’t want to pay the full amount up front, you put down a deposit or down payment promising that you are good for the rest. With this in mind, you should have goose bumps when you read the verses and others like them.
The Holy Spirit is a down payment. What does that mean in practical terms? It means every time something supernatural happens in your life or those around you, it’s a reminder that Jesus is real and He’s coming again! It’s a reminder every time you have peace and joy during difficult circumstances. It’s a reminder every time you get a prophetic word of wisdom that encourages you or someone around you. It’s a reminder when you see or experience physical, mental, or emotional healing. It’s a reminder every time you read your Bible and it’s not dry and boring. It’s a reminder every time you have just enough money to pay all your bills but mathematically it just doesn’t add up. These and others like them are reminders that God is picking up the tab but there’s still more to come!