One of the greatest revelations we can receive is that the Christian life was never designed to be lived through self-effort. Under the covenant of grace, the Holy Spirit serves as the administrator of everything Jesus obtained for us. The Holy Ghost isn’t just a feeling or a moment of emotional excitement, but a real person who guides, teaches, counsels, and directs our lives. Learning to trust Him moves us past relying on ourselves to the point where we begin depending on His leadership.
When Paul and his companions were traveling and considered going into a certain region, the Spirit of Jesus wouldn’t permit them to go there. Instead, He redirected them toward where God wanted them to go. In the same way, we don’t have to stumble through life hoping we make the right decisions. We have the Holy Spirit actively leading us along the path God has prepared for us.
The Spirit also administers true freedom. Liberty isn’t simply the ability to do whatever we want; it’s freedom from the pressure of trying to earn God’s acceptance through performance. Where the Spirit is allowed to work, there’s freedom to believe rightly and receive all that grace has already provided. When we turn to Christ, the veil of law-based living is removed, and we can clearly see God’s goodness.
Too often, religious traditions keep us focused on rules instead of relationships. When tradition becomes more important than God’s Word, we’re prevented us from receiving from Him. The Holy Spirit continually points us away from legalism and toward a living relationship with Jesus. He writes God’s truth on our hearts instead of placing burdens on our shoulders.
Letting the Spirit lead us moves us out from under the demands of the law. We can then enjoy everything that God has already provided through every spiritual blessing in Christ. God never promised us an easy life, but He did promise success when we trust Him. Following Him elevates life to a whole new level.
Prayer:
Father, thank You for giving us the Holy Spirit to guide, teach, and empower us. Help us to trust His leadership and receive all that You’ve freely provided. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Scriptures:
Acts 16:7, NLT
2 Corinthians 3:17
Mark 7:13
Galatians 5:18
Ephesians 1:3