Notes of Faith April 8, 2026
Pastor’s Pen Pulpit Series: Romans 8
April 28, 2002
“THE TRUE LEADING OF THE HOLY SPIRIT”
Romans 8:12-16
Paul has informed us in Romans 8:9-11 that we are in Christ and the Holy Spirit is dwelling in us as the seal of God’s ownership of the believer. The Holy Spirit gives life to our present mortal bodies and will raise these bodies from the dead just as He raised Jesus from the dead.
Our relationship to the flesh has ended as a result of that freedom truth. We are no longer obligated to the flesh – to live according to its dictates and power (verse 12).
Paul continues and reminds us if we are living according to the desires of the flesh – death is the result. On the other hand if we, by means of the Holy Spirit, are constantly putting to death the evil deeds of the body, we will truly live. This is a moment-by-moment, day-by-day experience of the believer’s will to conquer the fleshly activities (see Galatians 5:19-21).
In verse 14, Paul explains to us what constitutes the true leading of the Holy Spirit in our lives:
For all who are being led by the Spirit of God, these are the sons of God.
The word “for” opening verse 14 connects that verse with verse 13. So being led by the Spirit of God is putting to death the deeds of the body. If we are doing that, then the Spirit’s leading in other areas of our lives will fall into place. This leading, then, is a true mark of a mature child of God.
Paul then points out that we have not received a spirit of slavery that leads to fear.
For you have not received a spirit of slavery leading to fear again, but you have received a spirit of adoption as sons by which we cry out, “Abba! Father!”
The unregenerate man’s life is filled with fear. Why? Because he is living in the flesh – doing his own works. He may think He is happy, but down deep in his heart, fear abounds.
On the other hand, the Christian has received the spirit of adoption – adopted into God’s family – which gives us an affinity with the Father. Down deep we cry out, “Abba! Father!” which means, “Daddy!”
The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God.
What a testimony given to us by God, the Holy Spirit! He lets us know in our heart of hearts that we belong to God. What more could a Christian ask than this in days of doubt and fear? Rely on this wonderful truth, beloved. Take it to work with you, moms and dads. Take it to school with you, young people. And what a wonderful comfort to us older folks!
Next week we take up verse 17 which deserves a special treatment in itself. God bless.
Love to you all,
Pastor Charles Covington
1 John 5:13
These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, so that you may know that you have eternal life.
Satan is the great deceiver and liar that seeks to keep us from the relationship for which we were created by God. He desires to plant doubt and unbelief concerning the Word of God that we might turn from truth. Our darkened sinful hearts blame anyone but ourselves for our sin against God.
Let us ask God for a powerful release of His Spirit within us, that we might show to those around us, (as well as ourselves) whom we belong to, and implore those who will listen to the good news of Jesus, to come to His throne of grace that they to might become children of God!
Pastor Dale