In what ways can we rely on the Holy Spirit for guidance today? The Heart of Acts 6:10 “but they could not stand up to his wisdom or the Spirit by whom he spoke.” (Acts 6:10) Setting the Scene • Stephen stands before sharp critics. • His words carry irresistible weight—not because of rhetoric, but because the Holy Spirit supplies wisdom and power. • This moment shows that ordinary believers can rely on the Spirit for extraordinary guidance. How the Spirit Guided Stephen • Provided clarity of thought and speech. • Supplied courage in a hostile setting. • Confirmed truth so powerfully that opponents fell silent. • Elevated Christ, not Stephen’s personality. Principles that Cross the Centuries 1. The Spirit still gives wisdom that human argument alone cannot defeat (1 Corinthians 2:10-13). 2. The Spirit still equips believers to bear witness to Jesus (Acts 1:8). 3. The Spirit still leads children of God moment by moment (Romans 8:14). Practical Ways to Rely on the Holy Spirit Today Scripture Illumination • Read with expectation; the same Spirit who inspired the Word opens its meaning (John 14:26). • Ask Him to highlight passages for timely decisions. Prayerful Listening • Set aside hurried speech; give silent space for the Spirit’s gentle promptings (Psalm 46:10). • Commit plans, then stay sensitive to either a settled peace or a clear check within (Philippians 4:6-7). Inner Witness and Conviction • Notice that sudden clarity aligning with Scripture often signals His nudge (1 John 2:27). • He warns against sin and confirms righteous choices (Galatians 5:16-18). Spiritual Gifts in Action • Words of wisdom, knowledge, or prophecy can supply direction for individuals and congregations (1 Corinthians 12:7-11). • Always weigh such gifts against the written Word. Guidance Through the Body of Christ • The Spirit speaks through mature believers who know you and know Scripture (Proverbs 11:14). • Unity and mutual confirmation guard against private misinterpretation. Providential Circumstances • Doors opening or closing can signal His leading, especially when accompanied by biblical peace (Revelation 3:7-8). • Interpret circumstances through the lens of Scripture, never the other way around. Guardrails for Discernment • The Spirit never contradicts the Bible (Isaiah 8:20). • He exalts Jesus, not self (John 16:13-14). • He produces the fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, etc.—in genuine guidance (Galatians 5:22-23). Encouragement for Daily Life Lean on the Holy Spirit as Stephen did: stay saturated in Scripture, cultivate a listening heart, and step out in confidence that the Spirit still gives wisdom no opponent can refute. |
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