“In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise, which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory.” Ephesians 1:13-14
The Holy Spirit accompanies salvation and functions as a seal in the life of the believer. First, a seal is used to indicate proprietorship (you own it because it has your seal). Second, a seal proves that the object is genuine (you note the “sterling silver” seal on the bottom of silver). Third, a seal preserves something as safe or inviolate (the government sealed off the building so that no one could enter). In all three uses of this word, the Holy Spirit seals the believer in his relationship to God. God owns you, stamps you by His presence in your life as “genuine”, and protects you from harm, making you inviolate.
The Holy Spirit is also the earnest, pledge, or down payment of all God promises. When you purchase a home you pay part of the purchase in advance as a security of your intention to pay the remainder. God sends the Holy Spirit into your life to guarantee that the promises He has made, which comprise your eternal inheritance, will find their fulfillment. He is the pledge of your future redemption.
Circumstances will enter your life calling into question either the validity of your commitment to Christ or the veracity of His promises. During such times the Holy Spirit ministers to your spirit, assuring you that you are secure in Him and that all is well.
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