Living a Spirit-Led Life
The natural, nonspiritual man does not accept or welcome or admit into his heart
the gifts and teachings and revelations of the Spirit of God, for they are folly
(meaningless nonsense) to him; and he is incapable of knowing them [of
progressively recognizing, understanding, and becoming better acquainted with
them] because they are spiritually discerned and estimated and appreciated.
1 Corinthians 2:14 AMPC
Paul describes two kinds of people here: those who live spiritually and those who live carnally. The spiritual person is led by the Holy Spirit, surrendering their life to God and growing in faith. In contrast, the carnal person is ruled by the flesh, focused on worldly desires and stuck in spiritual immaturity. While both may be saved, only the spiritual person receives eternal rewards for works done in obedience to the Spirit.
Paul also writes about the natural man, referring to the individual who is not saved and has not repented of their sins or placed their faith in Christ for redemption. Such a person is spiritually dead, unable to comprehend the truths of God because they are discerned through the Holy Spirit. The natural man may rely on their own abilities, knowledge, education, skills, ideologies, and wisdom.
However, these worldly talents are meaningless in God’s eyes. The wisdom of the world is flawed, rooted in pride and self-sufficiency, and incapable of grasping the profound truth and power of the cross.
Paul writes that a natural man does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, because they are foolishness to him. God’s ways are higher than man’s, and His wisdom and strength surpass even the greatest human intellect. A man who is not saved cannot understand God’s knowledge because it can only be comprehended through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Only those who are born again can receive the things of God. No matter how intelligent, educated, accomplished, or successful a person is, spiritual truths are beyond human reasoning. Without this transformation, they remain unable to grasp divine wisdom. The Holy Spirit opens our hearts and minds, empowering us to grow in the knowledge of God
Reflection: Consider a moment when you felt at a loss for words. Maybe it was during a difficult conversation with a loved one or a challenging question about your faith. Ask the Holy Spirit to guide your speech. He is faithful and will always provide the wisdom you need.
Prayer: Father, help me to remember that the Holy Spirit will teach me what to say, when to say it, and when I should keep quiet. I choose to operate in the fruit of the Spirit and override the acts of my flesh so I can be a better witness of Your love and light. In the name of Jesus, I pray, amen.
Upcoming Connect 21 Events
- Saturday Morning Prayer (Jan 18th @ 9 am at The Way Woodstock 110 Mill Street Woodstock, GA 30188)
- Sunday Morning Service (Jan 19th @ 10 am at River Ridge High School)