When you think of being led what comes to your mind? Being led is wanting to follow. You also may think about the relationship they have with each other. What is the Lord revealing to you as you read about being led by the Spirit? Why is being led sometimes difficult?
The Scriptures compares people to sheep. We are not compared to a lion or an eagle, but a defenseless sheep that needs a shepherd. The good news is we do have a Shepherd and His name is Jesus. The Lord gives us insight into the characteristics of a true believer in Jesus. John 10:27 My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.[1] Those who are followers of Jesus both listen and follow the voice of the Good Shepherd.
Our Relationship with Jesus Enables Us to Know His Voice
When we get to know someone, we begin to recognize their voice. Most people can easily recognize the voice of their mother because they have had a long-term relationship with her. As we spend time with the Lord in His word, worship, and prayer, we begin to recognize His voice. Simeon had a deep relationship with the Lord and is called righteous and devout and was led by the Spirit.
Luke 2:25 At that time there was a man in Jerusalem named Simeon. He was righteous and devout and was eagerly waiting for the Messiah to come and rescue Israel. The Holy Spirit was upon him 26 and had revealed to him that he would not die until he had seen the Lord’s Messiah. 27 That day the Spirit led him to the Temple. So when Mary and Joseph came to present the baby Jesus to the Lord as the law required, 28 Simeon was there. He took the child in his arms and praised God, saying, 29 “Sovereign Lord, now let your servant die in peace, as you have promised. 30 I have seen your salvation, 31 which you have prepared for all people. [2]
You Also Can be Led by Spirit
Ask the Lord to help you follow His Spirit so that you may grow in your faith walk. The Lord knows we struggle, and we need His help each day to follow Him. Throughout your day, watch and listen for opportunities to obey the Spirit’s promptings. This was what Simeon was doing.
When you can sense in your spirit what you need to do, and it agrees with God’s word then do it. It may not be easy, but we can obey with God’s help. Each time we choose to obey the prompting of the Holy Spirit, it helps us grow in faith and to better hear the voice of the Shepherd. May the Lord bless you as you follow His leading. To learn more about being led by the Spirit, listen here:
https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/coming-of-messiah-blessing-over-jesus
[1,2] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation . Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Publishers.