How can we discern the Holy Spirit's presence in our lives today? Scripture Snapshot “Then the Spirit of the LORD will rush upon you, and you will prophesy with them, and you will be transformed into a different person.” (1 Samuel 10:6) Three Signs From 1 Samuel 10:6 • Sudden Empowerment: “The Spirit of the LORD will rush upon you.” • Spirit-Directed Speech: “You will prophesy with them.” • Inner Change: “You will be transformed into a different person.” What Transformation Looks Like Today • New heart desires that line up with God’s Word (Ezekiel 36:26–27). • Ongoing renewal of mind and life patterns (Romans 12:2). • Growing hatred of sin and love for holiness (Galatians 5:24–25). • Evidence of becoming “a new creation” (2 Corinthians 5:17). Spirit-Led Words and Worship • Confidence to declare God’s truth in ordinary conversations (Acts 4:31). • Spontaneous praise and thanksgiving that flows from within (Ephesians 5:18–20). • Timely encouragement that builds others up (1 Corinthians 14:3). Empowerment for Kingdom Service • Spiritual gifts distributed “for the common good” (1 Corinthians 12:7). • Courage and power “to be My witnesses” (Acts 1:8). • Strength beyond natural ability in sacrificial ministry (Colossians 1:29). Fruit That Confirms the Spirit’s Presence • “Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control” (Galatians 5:22–23). • Increasing unity and humility among believers (Ephesians 4:1–3). • Enduring hope even in trials (Romans 15:13). Practical Ways to Discern His Work • Saturate the mind with Scripture; the Spirit never contradicts the Word (John 16:13). • Maintain a yielded, obedient posture; surrender invites fresh filling (Romans 8:14). • Listen in prayerful stillness; the Spirit often nudges through quiet conviction (Isaiah 30:21). • Test impressions against biblical truth and godly counsel (1 John 4:1). • Watch for sustained peace that “rules in your hearts” (Colossians 3:15). • Note long-term character change rather than chasing fleeting feelings (2 Peter 1:5–8). Guardrails So We’re Not Misled • The Spirit always glorifies Jesus, not self-promotion (John 16:14). • He leads toward holiness, never moral compromise (1 Peter 1:15–16). • His influence produces order and edification, not confusion (1 Corinthians 14:33, 40). Final Encouragement The same Spirit who rushed upon Saul now dwells within every believer (1 Corinthians 6:19). Steady, scriptural, and Spirit-dependent living brings clear evidence that He is present, active, and faithfully transforming lives today. |
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