In Rom 8:1-14, how is it that we can walk after the Spirit?  A person who is not saved or who is walking after the flesh wouldn’t even understand how to walk after the Spirit.  But when you’re saved you can understand because you are now no longer just a natural man; you’re a spiritual man, as well, 1 Cor 2:14.

The three reasons, in this text, that we can walk after the Spirit are:

We have the mind of the Spirit, Rom 8:5-6.  As you’re walking, the Spirit brings things to mind that he wants you to do.  There’s a major difference between day dreams and divine direction.  The flesh is about day dreams.  The Spirit is about divine direction.  Fleshly thoughts are easily distinguishable from spiritual thoughts.  In one vein, fleshly thoughts are about you; spiritual thoughts are about the Lord.  The mind of the Spirit is the sound mind of 2 Tim 1:7.

We have the indwelling of the Spirit, Rom 8:9-11.  This is something that no lost person has within him.  But once a person is saved, the indwelling of the Spirit is like equipping an electric device with a power supply.  It doesn’t run without power.  The presence of the Spirit of God gives us a direct connection to God.  Therefore, the Lord is able to inspire the words of God to us and use these words to direct our lives.  We walk in his power, confidence, assurance, peace, etc.

We have the leading of the Spirit, Rom 8:14.  The Spirit of God knows exactly what direction he wants you to go.  And so he leads us to the church he wants us to attend, the service he wants us to provide in the church, and so forth.  He leads us to the occupation and to the spouse he wants us to have.  You can pray and ask the Lord for direction and he will give it to you in the way he directs you.  People often speak about the “Lord said”.  This is not an audible voice but some impression upon the spirit in you to direct you.  Trust Prov 3:5-6.  You can tell whether your motive is for your flesh or for the Holy Spirit with honesty, patience, and experience.

Conclusion: walk after the Spirit of God and not after your flesh.  Be patient as you follow the Spirit and he teaches you.  The more you mortify the deeds of the flesh through the Spirit and follow him, the easier it will be to recognize his leading.