When the Holy Spirit Speaks

And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him. And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death before he had seen the Lord's Christ. (Luke 2:25-26)

Revelation occurs when the wisdom of the Holy Spirit ignites in your mind, allowing you to see things in a way you never have before. It's like being in a dark room and someone suddenly flips the switch, flooding the space with light. Everything that was once hidden becomes clear. Have you ever experienced that? You've read a verse many times, but this time, you didn't just read it; you truly saw it.

In the verse above, Luke wrote about a man of God named Simeon, to whom the Spirit gave a clear message: he would not die until he saw the Messiah. What a specific, powerful word! That wasn't just for the times of Jesus; the Holy Spirit still speaks this way today. He will speak through a still, small voice, an impression, or a Spirit-led Word that aligns with Scripture.

Now, we don't follow voices. We need to test them to see if they are truly from God. How? First, determine if they align with the Word. The Spirit will never contradict the Word. Next, observe if they produce life and clarity. If they bring death and confusion, they are not from the Spirit. Also, when the Spirit speaks, He builds courage and confidence within us. If what you hear causes fear, it is not of the Spirit.

Simon lived with his heart attuned to the Holy Spirit's whisper, and that same Spirit dwells in you. Sometimes He turns on the lights, sometimes He speaks to you directly, and sometimes He guides you toward truth. Either way, you will never miss His leading if you are listening for His voice and anchored in the Word.

Practical Application

Be attentive to the Holy Spirit and confirm what you receive from His guidance with Scripture.

Psalm 25:14; Amos 3:7