Spiritual Guidance
Spiritual Guidance8
Honor God's Spirit
By A.W. Tozer0JHN 16:13GAL 5:22A.W. Tozer emphasizes the need for Christians to honor the Holy Spirit, urging believers to reflect on their attitudes towards Him and to seek forgiveness for any disrespect shown. He critiques Bible teachers who misrepresent the Holy Spirit's role, asserting that the Spirit speaks and acts with the authority of the Godhead. Tozer reminds us that the Holy Spirit's guidance is essential for living a life that bears the fruits of the Spirit, and neglecting Him leads to spiritual deficiency.
In Jail
By D.L. Moody0PRO 22:6MAT 18:12GAL 6:1JAS 5:191PE 5:8D.L. Moody shares a poignant story about a mother who believed her son was good enough and did not need conversion, ultimately leading to his downfall. Despite Moody's efforts to influence both the mother and son towards Christ, the mother's resistance prevailed, resulting in her son ending up in jail. The son, ashamed and under an assumed name, pleaded with Moody not to inform his mother, who mourned for years, believing he was dead. This narrative illustrates the tragic consequences of neglecting spiritual guidance and the importance of supporting loved ones in their faith journey.
She Hugs Her Young Ones to Death
By Thomas Brooks0PRO 13:24PRO 22:15PRO 23:13Thomas Brooks emphasizes the necessity of parental correction in his sermon 'She Hugs Her Young Ones to Death.' He warns that failing to discipline children can lead to their spiritual demise, comparing negligent parents to an ape that hugs its young to death. Brooks cites Proverbs 23:13-14, explaining that the rod of correction is essential to prevent folly and misery in children, and that it is a divine ordinance meant to guide them away from sin. He illustrates the consequences of neglecting this duty through the examples of Eli and David, who lost their sons due to their fondness and lack of discipline. Ultimately, Brooks asserts that true love for a child involves consistent and prayerful correction.
Proving God's Perfect Will
By Zac Poonen02TI 3:16Zac Poonen emphasizes the importance of discerning God's perfect will by encouraging believers to ask themselves twelve reflective questions. These questions guide individuals to evaluate their actions against biblical teachings, personal conscience, and the glory of God. By considering the impact of their choices on their spiritual lives and the lives of others, believers can gain clarity on God's will. Poonen highlights the necessity of seeking wisdom from mature Christians and ensuring that one's actions align with a clear conscience and spiritual edification. Ultimately, this process leads to a deeper understanding of living in accordance with God's desires.
Lost on the Deep
By D.L. Moody0MAT 5:14D.L. Moody shares a poignant story about a lighthouse keeper who, while waiting for his son to return from a whaling voyage, accidentally lets his light go out during a storm. This tragic event leads to the loss of his son, who perished just as he was returning home. Moody uses this narrative to illustrate the critical role of parents in guiding their children and the consequences of neglecting their spiritual responsibilities. The sermon serves as a reminder for parents to keep their 'light' shining brightly, ensuring they provide guidance and hope to their children. It emphasizes the importance of vigilance and faithfulness in nurturing the next generation.
1 Corinthians 16
By John Nelson Darby0ACT 16:61CO 16:8John Nelson Darby emphasizes the importance of recognizing and responding to the open doors for ministry despite facing adversaries. He shares personal experiences of perseverance in evangelism, illustrating that true guidance comes from the Spirit of God, which may lead one to unexpected places for fruitful work. Darby also highlights the significance of moral authority in ministry, where influence is gained through service rather than official titles. He contrasts the effectiveness of spiritual leadership with the limitations of formal structures, advocating for a reliance on the Spirit's direction in ministry efforts.
The Light Shews Sin and Evil
By George Fox0PSA 119:105MAT 5:14JHN 8:12ROM 12:22CO 6:17EPH 5:8PHP 2:15COL 3:2JAS 4:41JN 1:5George Fox emphasizes the importance of valuing the Light within us, which reveals sin and evil, guiding us towards humility and away from worldly temptations. He urges listeners to heed this inner Light, as it serves as both a teacher and a source of condemnation, leading to purity and holiness. By following the Light, individuals can cultivate a deeper relationship with the Lord and experience spiritual refreshment. Fox warns against conforming to the evils and vanities of the world, encouraging a focus on inner guidance and faithfulness to God. Ultimately, he calls for a love of the Light, equating it with a love for Christ.
The Light of His Countenance
By Andrew Murray0PSA 27:1PSA 89:15JHN 1:5Andrew Murray emphasizes the significance of God's light in our lives, comparing it to the daily rising of the sun that illuminates our path. He encourages believers to turn to God and trust in His light, which is essential for spiritual nourishment and guidance. Just as we rely on the sun for physical light, we must seek the heavenly light of God's countenance each morning to experience His presence throughout the day. Murray reminds us that it is God's desire for us to dwell in His light and rejoice in His blessings. By communing with God, we can ensure that His light shines upon us, leading to a joyful and fulfilling life.