Overriding the Holy Spirit
Do not override the Holy Spirit
Thanksgiving Day 2016, the Lord spoke “Do not override the Holy Spirit.” As He spoke He imparted a New Year’s resolution type backdrop. As if a new year began on Thanksgiving Day.
Isn’t it interesting that people can override the Holy Spirit! How do we override Him? Either by not listening to Him or if we do hear, by not doing what He says—including both attitudes and actions. How well are we doing? Consider 1 Thessalonians 5:16-22
· Rejoice always,
· pray without ceasing,
· in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
· Do not quench the Spirit [literally, do not put out the Spirit’s fire].
· Do not despise prophecies.
· Test all things; hold fast what is good.
· Abstain from every form of evil.
And, 1 Corinthians 10:1-14, which, to summarize says,
Everyone during the time surrounding the Exodus experienced and saw what God did. Most, however, chose not to believe Him nor obey Him, and therefore, died in the desert. They chose their immorality and idolatry over God, and chose complaining and grumbling rather than thankfulness.
Paul then brings this into NT context: Now these things happened to them as an example, but they were written down for our instruction, on whom the end of the ages has come. You will not be given more than you can handle. Therefore, flee from idolatry. It’s your choice.
Our choices will reign within us (Romans 6:12).
The Holy Spirit will not override us if we override Him.
But, if the Holy Spirit lives within us then we have the ability to listen and obey Him. He will help us, and He does, but we must make the choice. Tomorrow, first thing, tell the Holy Spirit, “Today I choose You. Today I choose not to override You. Today I choose to do things Your way. Help me remember to consult You, listen to You, and obey You.”
The Holy Spirit will not override us if we override Him.
But, if the Holy Spirit lives within us then we have the ability to listen and obey Him. He will help us, and He does, but we must make the choice. Tomorrow, first thing, tell the Holy Spirit, “Today I choose You. Today I choose not to override You. Today I choose to do things Your way. Help me remember to consult You, listen to You, and obey You.”
Choose to be resolute about obeying Him.
Choose not to override the Holy Spirit.
