Apr 28 Devotion: Seeking Guidance: The First Step

8).  If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.  9).  If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.  10),  If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.

                                      1 JOHN 1:8-10 (KJV)

By forsaking the worldly way, believers choose a narrow path (SEE MATTHEW 7:13).   However, we’re not meant to wander blindly on it. The Holy Spirit is our guide. But have you ever struggled to discern His divine guidance?

Seeking God’s direction involves a pattern that begins with cleansing—in other words, the first place to look is at ourselves. Ask, “Father, do You see anything in my life that might interfere with my understanding what You are saying?”  Sin hinders the process: It clouds our judgment and how we experience the power of the Holy Spirit.

The Bible teaches that God cleanses us from unrighteousness when we confess our sins (SEE 1 JOHN 1:19).   It also contains a clear warning for those who refuse to relinquish a wrong habit or attitude—the Lord doesn’t heed their cries (SEE PSALMS 66:18).   But even when mistakes are made, God will never forsake those who call Him Father (SEE HEBREWS 13:5).

Cleansing is woven into the process of gaining divine guidance. The Holy Spirit brings sin to our attention and equips us to deal with it. So on the way to receiving His clear direction, we may revisit the process of cleansing often. 

The result is, we can continually experience a time of rich spiritual growth and renewal.

-IBC