Passage Read: Romans 8-9
Meditation Verses: 8:12-14
Thought
Paul says that all who are being led by the Spirit, these are sons of God. He expects all true believers to hear from and follow the direction of the Spirit. In isolation, that statement, that expectation could mean almost anything. Does the Spirit speak audibly to the true believer? Does He give clear impressions in the heart and mind through prayer? How does He lead the believer? But the statement before gives a context that explains Paul's meaning: We have an obligation to the Spirit to put to death the misdeeds of the flesh under His direction and by His power. So being led by the Spirit means putting to death the misdeeds of the body by the power and guidance of the Spirit. It's not hearing a voice or having a strong impression of what to do that means I'm being led by the Spirit; it's cleaning up my life according to His direction and by His power that marks me as one who is led by the Spirit.
Application
I don't need to be hearing the voice of the Spirit of God in my heart or mind in order to know that I am a true believer. I just need to recognize what deeds and behaviors are pleasing to the Lord and what are not. And when I recognize that, do I put the behaviors God hates to death? It is the Spirit who helps me recognize ungodly behaviors, agree that they are wrong and work to root them out. Do I listen to and cooperate with Him when He makes me aware of my evil deeds? Then I can have confidence that I am not only being led by the Spirit, but walking with Him. How does He make me aware? He convicts me in my heart when I'm tempted or when I engage in the behavior, or when I see in Scripture something God hates. Likewise, when I do what pleases God, I should be able to sense His approval in my heart or in my spirit.