In Step with the Holy Spirit

Scripture

Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit’s leading in every part of our lives. -Galatians 5:25

Years ago, when I was younger, I marched with my town’s local high school band. As I learned how to march, the fundamental theme was staying in step. Whether the band was walking onto the field for a performance or walking down the street during a parade, synchronicity was vital. Today, my daughter is a marching band student, and when I watch her band and others, the first thing I look at is their feet. I observe them to see if they are all in step with each other. Christians are also called to walk in step with the Spirit of God living inside of us. Our lives should be in sync with the Holy Spirit’s guidance rather than our own ideas and desires.

What does synchronicity with the Holy Spirit’s guidance look like? It first involves our continued obedience to God’s will. This means we have to seek Him for His will for our individual lives, and study the scriptures to discover what His principles and commands are. Then we seek guidance and direction from the Holy Spirit to apply God’s will to every part of our lives. It looks like developing a relationship with the Holy Spirit to get to know Him so that you can recognize His voice when He speaks. Don’t we know the voice of our parents or significant others when they speak? This is because we’ve spent time in their presence. So, we respond to the Spirit’s direction and move at the pace He sets for our lives. It involves the active choice to live according to God’s Spirit, counteracting our fleshly desires. Know that when you are saying yes to one thing, Beloved, you’re saying no to something else. It involves our active engagement to listen for His voice and follow His leadership in each moment throughout our day.

Beloved, walking in step with the Holy Spirit is a process, not a one-time event. It’s characterized by our conscious effort, intentional active participation, and His consistent guidance. It all brings about transformation in our lives. This scripture exhorts every believer to consistently live out our spiritual life by the Spirit’s direction. As we do this, others will see the transformation in our outward behavior. Transformation and growth aren’t a passive experience because we partner with God to ultimately reflect the character and love of Christ. Let yourself off the hook, you’re being transformed. Just lean in to the process.

Prayer

Father, we will submit to the direction and guidance of the Holy Spirit for our lives. We lay down our desires and walk in step with the Spirit to be transformed into the image of Christ Jesus. Amen