If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. – Galatians 5:25
Just north of Lake Shasta in California, Interstate 5 is very curvy. Recently, the highway department put some warning devices along this stretch of highway. At one sharp curve there is a lighted sign that reads, “SHARP CURVE AHEAD, SPEED LIMIT 50 MILES AN HOUR—POLICE PATROLLED.” Just before entering the curve, there is another device telling exactly what speed vehicles are traveling. With this help, drivers can adjust to a safe speed as they maneuver around the curve.
As I was driving along this stretch of highway, it came to me that it would be good if we had something like this to check how we are doing spiritually. My next thought was, We do have that kind of help—it is the Holy Spirit! If we are living close to the Lord, we will feel a little check in our hearts when we start to say or do something that does not please the Lord. That check comes from the Spirit of God, and we are much better off when we pay attention to it and let the Lord lead us. If we listen to that still, small voice, He will guide us as we take our journey through life.
In order to “walk in the Spirit,” it is important to acquaint ourselves with God’s Word at every opportunity. If we familiarize ourselves with the Bible, many times the Spirit will bring a Scripture to mind just when we need it. Bible study (both in groups and on our own), church attendance, and Sunday school are good ways to let the Word grow in our hearts.
It is also important to spend time in prayer each day. God wants us to talk to Him so that His Spirit can be with us. As we spend this time in the Word and in prayer, God will keep us on course.