In step with the Spirit

The Bible says, “Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.” Problems arise when you try to understand spiritual things with your natural mind. Comparing spiritual things to natural things makes the things of God seem foolish (see 1 Corinthians 2:14 NCV). Paul said, “The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God” (v. 10 NIV). And He reveals them to us in different ways. Author Jon Walker said, “Becoming one with Jesus means developing spiritual discernment and accepting the sometimes seemingly illogical things that come from the Spirit. God speaks to us in various ways. Here are three to watch for: (1) Stop signs: these are red flags warning you not to go somewhere. A dog I once owned helped me to understand this. He was used to being on a leash, and when I’d take him to a neighbour’s field to run, I’d simply say no when he approached somewhere he shouldn’t go. The dog hadn’t done anything wrong, and my warning wasn’t a rebuke; it was a caution for his own protection. (2) Nudges: a Spirit-nudge can alert you to impending danger…a Holy Ghost flare to guard your heart. Once, a friend of mine was driving toward a green light when he felt strongly prompted to hit his brakes. So he did – just as a semi trailer ran a red light! If it hadn’t been for his instant obedience, he’d have been killed. (3) Shushes: when we’re in conversation, God often warns us when we step too close to a sinful topic, an unfair comment, or gossip. And when God ‘shushes’ you – stop talking!”