Learning to Follow the Holy Spirit
“For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God.” Romans 8:14 (NKJV)
One of the great privileges of the believer is the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit. Jesus did not leave His disciples without help. He promised them the Holy Spirit, who would dwell with them and be in them. Through the Spirit, we enjoy fellowship with God, receive help in our weaknesses, and are empowered to live according to His will. The Holy Spirit is not a distant personality whose presence becomes relevant only during church meetings. He dwells in the believer, and we must learn to live with the consciousness of His presence.
Being led by the Spirit requires that we become familiar with the truth of God's Word, because the Holy Spirit does not lead us into conduct that contradicts the Scriptures He inspired. Sometimes people become so concerned with hearing a spectacular instruction that they neglect the things God has already made clear in His Word. You do not need a special revelation to know that you should be truthful, forgive others, walk in love, and avoid dishonesty. These are already established instructions, and obedience to them is part of walking in step with the Spirit.
As you grow spiritually, learn to involve God in your decisions. Pray for wisdom, examine your motives, pay attention to the principles of Scripture, and remain teachable. Do not be in a hurry to attribute every feeling or impression to the Holy Spirit. Learn to test what you believe you have received, especially when making decisions that carry serious consequences. The more you grow in the knowledge of God and practise obedience, the more discerning you become in your walk with Him.
Prayer
Father, thank You for the gift of the Holy Spirit. Help me to recognize His work in my life, grow in discernment, and walk in obedience to Your Word, in Jesus' name. Amen.
Confession
The Spirit of God dwells in me. I am growing in wisdom and spiritual understanding. I am sensitive to His leading and obedient to the truth.
Further reading: John 14:16–17, Galatians 5:16–25, 1 Corinthians 2:12–16.