Hearing the Holy SpiritSample

What comes as a surprise is that the first mention of Jesus being led by the Holy Spirit was into the wilderness, into fasting, and into temptation—in other words, into a battle (Matthew 4:1-11). The Spirit didn’t lead Him to preach, heal, or deliver, but into the wilderness and into fasting! When we get baptized in the Holy Spirit, we will begin to hear His promptings, but they don’t usually lead us where we want to go or tell us what we expect to hear.

The Holy Spirit leads us to pray, fast, humble ourselves, ask for forgiveness, extend forgiveness, give sacrificially, and serve without grumbling—things that make our flesh complain. Most people would ignore or question that kind of leading of the Holy Spirit because they are so addicted to comfort. Then they ask God why He doesn’t speak to them, and they wonder how to hear His voice above the surrounding noises. In reality, they don’t want to listen to God; they want God to speak what they want to hear—and there’s a huge difference between those two things.

For us to walk in the Holy Spirit, we must be willing to follow Him wherever He leads us. Following the Holy Spirit means denying the flesh. It will mean a detachment from material things and carnal interests. It will usually involve giving up something good for something even better that God has waiting for those who are obedient.

God’s voice usually leads to a sacrifice before it takes us to success. Ignoring the promptings of the Holy Spirit only grieves the Holy Spirit. It will dull our faith because we missed the chance to stretch it. Oh, how much we miss by not following the Holy Spirit!

Reflection:

Do not be surprised if hearing God’s voice begins with something that will cost you. He may be asking you to go somewhere that's not easy or to get rid of things near your heart. What are the areas He's leading you to surrender? Take some time in prayer to let those go.

Let's Pray:

Holy Spirit, would you highlight the areas in my life that I need to surrender? Father, I surrender these areas to you today. I lay them at your feet. I choose to follow you wherever you lead me. I know that you'll lead me to do whatever brings you the most glory.