Chapter 19
I AM Spirit-Led
Are you being led by anxious thoughts, or is the Spirit leading you? I have a simple test to help you determine this. When a problem comes up, do you worry first and think about praying later, or do you pray first and then put it out of your mind? I think I know the answer to this. Many of you are led by your thoughts and feelings first, and the praying comes as an after-thought.
Romans 8:14-15 addresses this issue: "For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father." This is saying that if we are led by the Spirit of God, we can nail that old bondage to anxiety down so it won't ever get up and bother us again. Through the Spirit of adoption, we have a relationship with God so close that we can cry out, "Daddy, I'm worried about something. I need help. Come hang out with me and comfort me so I don't feel so anxious (Abba, Father)." When we're led by the Spirit and troubled thoughts pop into our mind, we don't have to let those feelings turn into fear, worry, panic, or freaking out. We can just rest easy, knowing the Lord is with us and everything is going according to God's plan.
Now you're probably asking, "How does the Spirit lead me?" Well, if you are a believer, the Spirit is dwelling inside of you. And He leads you gently through your mind, your conscience, your thoughts. He gives you guidance. He plants right thoughts in your mind - if you are listening for Him. When you decide to worry and become anxious about a situation, the Spirit is probably saying, "Yoo-hoo, I’m talking to you but you're not listening. You're not following my lead."
Now, the easiest way to get into the mode of being led by the Spirit instead of your own thoughts is to begin memorizing Bible verses that seem to be written just for you. You know the ones I mean ... and it's different for everyone. These are the verses that almost seem highlighted for you when you open your Bible. Then you will have something quickly available to replace those negative thoughts when they creep up on you. The Holy Spirit will be able to lead you in the opposite direction with your thinking habits.
Continue to Chapter 19: Questions
