It is interesting the number of different ways that God makes known his will. In the Old Testament, he spoke through a burning bush to Moses and in a small still voice to Elijah. God disclosed his will in visions and dreams to the Prophets and, on one occasion, through a talking donkey. In the New Testament, the Apostles used the roll-of-the-dice (casting lots) for Judas’ replacement; and the Holy Spirit spoke to the collective church body to send Paul and Barnabas on the first New Testament missionary journey.
In the both Old Testament and New Testament, it was the personal responsibility of the individual to be sensitive to the work of the Holy Spirit. Moses had to hear and surrender to God through the burning bush. Balaam had to listen to the donkey. Paul, Barnabas, and the church had to acknowledge and act on the Spirit’s instruction.
Today we have the Holy Spirit that indwells the believer and the Word of God (The Bible) to speak to us. The Word and Spirit are in harmony. The Holy Spirit is the interpreter of the Word, and the Word is interpreted in the correct intent of the author since the author is the Holy Spirit.
Unfortunately, we often look to the Word without seeking the help of the Spirit to interpret the correct intent and meaning. The Pharisees are a good example of stressing the letter of the law without the seeking the spirit of the Word. When reading, studying or meditating on the Word of God, we should by prayer seek the Spirit to guide us into all truth.
Pray for the guidance of the Spirit before reading the Word of God, after reading the Word of God, and while reading the Word of God. He is indispensable in understanding it!
