*But he turned and rebuked them, and said, Ye know not what manner of spirit ye are of * Luke 9:55
In Luke Chapter 9, James and John were denied access through a village by the Samaritans and so resorted to calling down fire from heaven to consume the people just like the prophet Elijah did when he also was disrespected (2 Kings 1). However the Lord Jesus rebuked them saying they knew not what manner of spirit they were of.
Similarly in life, we are tempted to apply certain principles that have worked before or worked for others to certain situations we encounter. Though this is not wrong we should always make sure we do so in consultation with the Holy Spirit. Indeed there are many situations that appear the same on the surface but are actually different when you get to the root of it. Not every sickness would require casting out a devil some may just require a change in habit. In medicine for instance different illnesses may present with similar non specific symptoms. It takes the insight of the physician to tell the difference and as such prescribe the appropriate treatment. For us that physician is the Holy Spirit. Let us seek his wisdom and understanding in all things.
LIFE APPLICATION
Always check with the Holy Spirit when approaching every problem you encounter.
PRAYER
Father lead me by your precious spirit in all that I do.