Handling The Things Of The Spirit (1 Corinthians 2:16)
In a world filled with distractions and challenges, it will only take spiritual maturity and fulfillment to handle the things of the spirit. Therefore, we must make a conscious decision to align our thoughts and actions with God’s will, allowing the Holy Spirit to lead us in our daily lives.
Our journey as christians is not merely about adhering to a set of rules or moral codes; rather, it is about cultivating a relationship with God that permeates every aspect of our existence.
Apostle Paul frequently emphasizes the importance of living by the Spirit in his letters, particularly in Galatians 5:16-25, where he encourages believers to “walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” This call to action invites us to reject the temptations of the world and embrace a life characterized by love, joy, peace, and other fruits of the Spirit.
You must know that the spiritual realm is often perceived as an abstract concept, yet it is a fundamental aspect of the Christian faith. It encompasses the influence of God, angels, and the Holy Spirit in our lives, as well as the reality of spiritual warfare. Ephesians 6:12 reminds us, “For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.” Recognizing this spiritual dimension is crucial for believers as it shapes our understanding of the battles we face and the resources available to us.
The Role of the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit is our helper and guide in handling the spiritual realm. John 14:26 emphasizes this role: “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you.” The Holy Spirit provides wisdom, comfort, and conviction, enabling us to discern truth from deception. By cultivating a relationship with the Holy Spirit through prayer and meditation on Scripture, we can strengthen our ability to handle the things of the Spirit.
Spiritual Discernment
As we walk in the Spirit, it is vital to understand spiritual discernment. This involves evaluating our thoughts, feelings, and actions in light of Scripture and the leading of the Holy Spirit. Philippians 1:9-10 encourages us to “be filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.” By aligning our lives with God’s Word and seeking the Holy Spirit’s guidance, we can make choices that reflect His character and purposes.
Engaging in Spiritual Warfare
When we talk about handling the things of the Spirit, it involves recognizing and engaging in spiritual warfare. Ephesians 6:10-11 instructs us to “be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil.” This armor includes truth, righteousness, the gospel of peace, faith, salvation, the Word of God, and prayer. By equipping ourselves with these spiritual resources, we can confront the challenges and temptations that seek to derail our journey. The more we continue in our walk with God, the more we begin to bear the fruits of the Spirit, as outlined in Galatians 5:22-23. These qualities reflect the character of Christ and serve as evidence of the Holy Spirit’s work in our lives. As we cultivate these fruits, we become more effective witnesses of God’s love and grace in the world.
Conclusion
Handling the things of the Spirit is one that requires intentionality, faith, and reliance on the Holy Spirit. Understanding the spiritual realm, embracing the mind of Christ, and practicing discernment helps us manage life’s challenges with divine wisdom. Again, let us not forget to engage in spiritual warfare and bear the fruits of the Spirit in order to reflect the character of Christ and fulfill our calling as His disciples.
