Time to Take Inventory

It’s time for us to take inventory. What has been working in our lives, and what needs to be changed? What can we do on our own, and what requires a miracle from Daddy God? “Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you—unless, of course, you fail the test?” (2 Corinthians 13:5, NIV).

We must include the Holy Spirit in every action and decision we take. “In all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight” (Proverbs 3:6, NIV). Remember, we are learning to hear the Holy Spirit’s voice like dear sheep who only listen to their master. “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they

follow me” (John 10:27, NIV). All other voices are ignored by the sheep.

We are forever learning and evolving into the perfection Daddy God has planned for us. “Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus” (Philippians 1:6, NIV). Trust that when we don’t clearly understand why things happen, while we are diligently seeking Him, God will take things heading in the wrong direction and turn them for our good. “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28, NIV).

As we contemplate our New Year resolutions, set aside a special time daily to have fellowship with our Heavenly Father. “Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed” (Mark 1:35, NIV). Remember to be quiet, asking for nothing, and simply listening to the thoughts He brings. “Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10, NIV).

We can learn to hear from the Holy Spirit. Let us practice following those strong “intuitions” and discern whether they are from God or not. “Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God” (1 John 4:1, NIV). If it brings fear, we know it isn’t from our Heavenly Father. “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind” (2 Timothy 1:7, NKJV). There is a difference between a sense of caution and fear.

As we become more aware of what our heart (the Holy Spirit) is saying, the more peace, victories, and abundant life we will experience. “The peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:7, NIV). Let us trust in Him fully as we move forward, confident that He is guiding our steps. “The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and he delighteth in his way” (Psalm 37:23, KJV).

Let this become a year of supernatural victories as we learn to follow the Holy Spirit’s guidance.