Accessing The Riches Of HeavenSample

  

Having Faith

God most often speaks to us through faint Spirit-inspired thoughts in our minds or images and impressions in our imagination. He created us in His own image and likeness, and that includes our minds and imaginations. He never intended that our minds and imaginations would host evil and vain thoughts or impressions, but rather that we would be one with His thoughts and visions. Receiving His revelation entails sanctifying (setting apart for God’s purposes) these hidden faculties.

Sinful thoughts or impressions in your mind’s eye (imagination) can taint your ability to hear accurately. As with a water reservoir, the water might be pure at its source, but if there are contaminants in the pipes, the water will be compromised by the time it gets poured into a drinking glass. Only if our lives are pure before the Lord and without mixture can we hear from God with accuracy.

Invite the Holy Spirit to convict you of any ungodly beliefs, thoughts or images that are in your mind and imagination. Repent (which means turning away from sinful actions, words and thoughts and returning to God’s ways) and receive forgiveness. The Bible is clear that if we confess our sin, not only will He forgive us, but He will cleanse us from all unrighteousness. That clears the slate and we are ready to receive.

When you have a sanctified mind and imagination, you will be positioned to hear from the Holy Spirit. Then what you hear from the Spirit will produce faith.

Questions to Ponder: Can you think of a time when you acted upon a Spirit-quickened word? What was the result? Do you believe that you have faith at work in your life?

We adapted this plan from another resource. Learn more at http://bakerpublishinggroup.com/books/accessing-the-riches-of-heaven/395920