SPIRITUAL SHARPNESS
But solid
food belongs to those who are full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to
discern both good and evil. Hebrews 5:4
When a knife is well sharpened, it
cuts easier. When a blade s blunt, it's harder to use. Not only does it take more force to actually cut something but also
it's harder to control. Similarly, when a person has spiritual sharpness, he or
she discerns the will of God easier than when he or she is dull spiritually.
To know the
leading of the Lord, we must be sharpened spiritually. It does not happen in one moment;
it happens over time. Sometimes you'll get it right, other times you'll get it wrong. It is a learning process of daily submission and
dependence on the Holy Spirit. Just make a personal commitment to know the voice
of God for yourself. Remember that at the same time as the Lord is speaking to us, there are other competing voices
trying to get our attention. These 'strange voices' are many and come to us in different
ways — Satan's voice,
deceptive spirits, the voice of our flesh, the voice of the world and so on. These are the voices
that confuse us spiritually so that we cannot clearly hear from God. Spiritual
sharpness is when we can tell the Holy Spirit's leading from other 'strange voices.
These tools will help you to
develop spiritual sharpness.
First is the
renewal of mind through the study and application of God's word. Second is intimate
prayer and communion with God. Third is a personal time of worship and waiting in God's presence. Fourth is walking in love and
forgiveness. And, finally, sharing the Word of God with others.
All these tools
working together will help you develop spiritual sensitivity to the Holy
Spirit's leading.
Prayer: Lord, help me to develop
spiritual sharpness in my walk with You.
Scriptural Reading: Hebrews 5:12-14
