How can we discern the Spirit's calling in our lives today? Setting the Scene: Judges 6:34 “So the Spirit of the LORD came upon Gideon, and he blew the ram’s horn and summoned Abiezer to follow him.” Key Observations from Gideon’s Encounter - The Spirit “came upon” (literally “clothed”) Gideon—God provided both the call and the capability. - Gideon’s first response was action: he sounded the trumpet. The inward filling produced an outward signal. - Those who heard the call gathered: the Spirit’s initiative created unity and momentum. Discerning the Spirit’s Call Today - Start with the Word • 2 Timothy 3:16–17: Scripture equips “for every good work,” so any genuine call aligns with revealed truth. • Psalm 119:105: God’s Word is the lamp that lights next steps, not just distant goals. - Look for Spirit-given conviction • John 16:13: the Spirit “will guide you into all truth.” A burdensome or persistent prompting toward service, mission, or repentance often signals His guidance. - Note confirming circumstances • Acts 16:6-10: doors closed in Asia, opened in Macedonia; the Spirit often arranges providence to steer direction. - Seek godly counsel • Proverbs 11:14: “With many counselors there is deliverance.” Mature believers help test impressions. - Expect empowerment, not merely emotion • Acts 1:8: “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you.” Strength for the task usually accompanies the task itself. Practices that Keep Our Ears Tuned - Daily Scripture immersion—letting God’s voice become familiar. - Regular, unhurried prayer—listening as much as speaking (Psalm 46:10). - Consistent fellowship—gathering where the Spirit commonly speaks through others (Hebrews 10:24-25). - Serving in small ways first—faithfulness in little readies us for larger assignments (Luke 16:10). - Maintaining holiness—sin dulls discernment; confession sharpens it (1 John 1:9). Testing and Confirming the Call - Does it exalt Christ? (John 16:14) - Is it anchored in Scripture? (Galatians 1:8) - Is there inner peace that endures prayerful examination? (Colossians 3:15) - Do trusted believers affirm it? (Acts 13:2-3) - Are providential signs lining up, as with Gideon’s assembling army? (Judges 7:2-8) Walking Forward in Obedience - Act promptly—delay often breeds doubt (James 1:22). - Depend continually—Gideon’s courage waned, but fresh assurance came each step (Judges 7:9-15). - Expect opposition—Spirit-led paths still meet Midianites; opposition does not annul the call (2 Timothy 3:12). - Celebrate God’s victories—Gideon’s trumpet declared trust before the battle; praise fuels perseverance (Psalm 22:3). |
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