Romans 8
Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. Romans 8:5 NIV
How do you know if you are walking with the Spirit? The first place to look is into your thought life. Do your thoughts and motives tend to be centered around worldly things or Godly things? If the desires of your heart have gotten off track and you can honestly admit that you were heading in the wrong direction, there is wonderful news for you: You can alter your course and realign yourself with the Holy Spirit right now! You have the power to take control of your thoughts instead of allowing them to control you. “We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ” (2 Corinthians 10:5). Satan and the rest of this fallen world will constantly try to distract you from staying focused on God’s Kingdom. Although it will not always be easy, you need to keep your thoughts aligned with those of the Holy Spirit: “And set your minds and keep them set on what is above (the higher things), not on the things that are on the earth” (Colossians 3:2, Amplified Bible). So how do you know when you are on the right path and are, in fact, walking with the Spirit? Here is a list of behaviors that you will exhibit when your thoughts are focused on God and you base your actions on the guidance of the Holy Spirit:
-You are obedient to God’s commands, not disobedient.
-You have hope in a bright future with other believers and with Jesus.
-You are content with what you have been blessed with.
-You are happy to give to others and willingly give back to God.
-You express purity instead of profanity.
-You forgive instead of taking revenge.
-You trust God in all things.
-You have faith and do not fear.
-You pray instead of worry.
-You are kind to others instead of being cruel.
-You love and do not hate.
-You nurture and do not neglect.
-You are excited to teach others how to be disciples of Jesus.
-You support and encourage others and do not undermine.
-You have true joy and peace in all areas of your life regardless of circumstances.
If this list is something that you would like to see manifest in your life, make sure to allow the Holy Spirit to guide your steps and conform your mind. Consciously choosing to rely on Him by faith will always keep your thoughts, words, and deeds on the path of righteousness that not everyone seeks: “But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it” (Matthew 7:14).