Spirit's Leading
To live a life guided by God's will, we must follow the Spirit and make choices that align with His wisdom and love.
Mary Wilder Tileston emphasizes the importance of living in the Spirit and walking in the Spirit, as stated in Galatians 5:25, to avoid walking in darkness, as mentioned in John 8:12. She highlights the obedience and love that come from following Jesus, who guides us as a Brother and King. Tileston also stresses that being led by the Spirit allows us to navigate through challenging circumstances without harm, but warns against indulging in worldly ways that hinder our spiritual growth.
Text
If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.
GALATIANS 5:25
He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness.
JOHN 8:12
NO, my dear Lord, in following Thee,
Not in the dark, uncertainly,
This foot obedient moves;
'Tis with a Brother and a King,
Who many to His yoke will bring;
Who ever lives and ever loves.
JOHN GAMBOLD
IF we are so led by the Spirit, where we go, and what we do, is of comparatively little moment; we may be forced by the circumstances of our life into surroundings that seem full of peril, but if God sent us there, such surroundings can do us no harm, though they may dull our feeling of happiness. Only let us remember that if, by God's mercy, we are free agents, and can choose our own way of life, then it is simple mockery to talk of aspirations for the higher life, if we deliberately indulge our lower nature, by living in an atmosphere of worldliness, or by doing something which is, perhaps, quite innocent for others, but consciously works us harm.
GEORGE H. WILKINSON
No one who has not tried it would believe how many difficulties are cleared out of a man's road by the simple act of trying to follow Christ.
ALEXANDER MACLAREN
Sermon Outline
- The Importance of Following the Spirit
- The Benefits of Following the Spirit
- The Responsibility of Being Led by the Spirit
- Choosing Our Own Way
- Avoiding Worldliness
Key Quotes
“He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness.” — Mary Wilder Tileston
“No one who has not tried it would believe how many difficulties are cleared out of a man's road by the simple act of trying to follow Christ.” — Mary Wilder Tileston
“''Tis with a Brother and a King, Who many to His yoke will bring; Who ever lives and ever loves.” — Mary Wilder Tileston
Application Points
- We must be mindful of our choices and actions, and make sure they align with God's will and values.
- Trying to follow Christ can clear many difficulties out of our road and lead us to a life of peace and happiness.
- Living in the Spirit means to be guided and led by God's Holy Spirit, allowing us to make choices that align with His will.