The Holy Spirit is always working to direct us on the right path. Part of that process is called “conviction.” Conviction functions in several ways in our lives. To the non-Christian it is a stern rebuke when the Holy Spirit points out sin. This hopefully leads to repentance and salvation through Jesus Christ. In the life of the Christian, conviction may be when the Holy Spirit reminds us to do the right thing in a situation and not to allow temptation to lead us astray. The Holy Spirit also convicts Christians to act. We are his hands and feet here on this earth. The Holy Spirit leads and guides the willing Christian. We need to be open to the Holy Spirit’s direction and re-direction.

Scriptures
Jn 16:8-10; 1 Cor 2:4-5; Matt 6:33; Jn 16:12-15; Hb 3:15; Ez 36:26; 1 Cor 4:20

Verses
“When he arrives, He will uncover the sins of the world, expose unbelief as sin, and allow all to see their sins in the light of righteousness for the first time. This new awareness of righteousness is important because I am going to the Father and will no longer be present with you.” (Jn 16:8-10)
“The Spirit of truth will come and guide you in all truth…I am confident He will care for My own and reveal the path to you.” (Jn 16:12-15)

Thought
Conviction is like an alarm clock that goes off and calls for action…Wake up! You need to do something or be somewhere; get out of bed! If you keep hitting the snooze button you will be late or miss something important. Ignoring the Holy Spirit’s conviction/alarm can be dangerous. If you ignore Him over and over, you will eventually stop hearing His call. It will be like sleeping through the alarm. Do not allow your heart to be hardened to His call (see Ez 36:26).

Questions
How did you come to receive Jesus Christ as your Savior? Describe the conviction you felt. Is there anything the Holy Spirit has prompted you to do that you ignored and later realized why you should have been responsive? How does it feel to be obedient to the Holy Spirit’s leading?

Response
Read your Bible. Pray every day. Ask God to speak to you through the Holy Spirit. Commit to do what the Holy Spirit prompts you to do when he speaks.

Prayer
Lord, teach me to be sensitive to your Holy Spirit. I want to walk in the Spirit each day in close communication with you. Where you lead me, I will follow! In Jesus name I pray, Amen.