The Spirit's Leading: Evidence of God's Children

The sons of God are known by a singular mark: the leading of the Holy Spirit. This is no mere sentiment, but the living testimony of regeneration itself.

Wherefore does the Spirit lead the children of God? First, to repentance—that breaking of the stubborn will. Second, He elevates Christ as the supreme treasure; if the Holy Ghost has never made Christ precious to you, you know nothing of Him. Third, the Spirit leads into aletheia (truth), opening what remains a sealed chamber to the unregenerate.

But the Spirit's leading extends beyond knowledge. He kindles within every true-born son of God a burning love for the family of faith. We know we have passed from death unto life because we love the brethren. Moreover, He produces an intense love for the souls of sinners—compassion the worldly spirit never generates.

Most critically, the Spirit leads into holiness. If a man walks in pride, covetousness, or falsehood, the Holy Ghost never conducted him there. If you observe one devout before God and full of integrity before men, you witness the Spirit's leadership. The karpos tou pneumatos (fruit of the Spirit)—love, joy, peace—cannot be counterfeited.

Finally, He leads into vital godliness: prayer, that mystical breath of the soul; and usefulness in the Kingdom, each according to his calling. By these fruits, discern the true children of God.