Not God’s Robots

For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God (Romans 8:14). Do we believe God is present only through blind faith or logical reasoning? Is a strong impression of God’s presence, or seeing in hindsight that God acted within our actions beyond our powers, as experiential as God’s presence gets? Although these are valid, there is more. These ideas leave our interaction with God in the realm of vague feelings, the Ouija board and superstitious conjecture. God is also with us in a conversational relationship: he speaks with us individually as it is appropriate—which is only to be expected between persons who know one another, care about each other and are engaged in common enterprises. When Paul said, “all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God,” he wasn’t saying that we are “led” by being robots or interpreters of vague impressions and signs, but that we engage God in a conversational manner that is suited to the personal relationship with God so often spoken of in the Christian community.  —Dallas Willard, Hearing God Through the Year

Romans 8:14 speaks to our identity as believers. To be led by the Spirit is not simply a passive experience; it is an active, dynamic relationship with God where His presence guides, strengthens, and directs us daily. The Holy Spirit is not a distant force or a mere influence in our lives. He is the personal presence of God within us, transforming us, teaching us, and leading us into the fullness of God's will. As children of God, we are heirs to His promises, and the Spirit is the assurance that we belong to Him, a constant companion on our spiritual journey. When we understand that being led by the Spirit is what defines us as God's children, we begin to recognize the deep privilege and responsibility we have. It is the Spirit who empowers us to live out our faith, giving us the wisdom to navigate life’s challenges and the courage to live according to God's truth. The Spirit's leading is not always loud or dramatic; sometimes it is gentle, quiet whispers that call us to surrender and trust. But in all things, the Spirit is faithful to guide us toward a life that honors God, brings us peace, and draws us closer to Him. Being led by the Spirit is the mark of a true child of God, and it is through His guidance that we experience the fullness of His love and grace. —DH