The Conviction of the Holy Spirit Versus the Condemnation of Satan
When He, the Spirit of Truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come
– John 16:13
How can we be certain if it’s the Holy Spirit convicting us of sin or the devil seeking to hinder us? Carefully consider the precise nature of the leading:
- The Holy Spirit is gentle and loving. Satan condemns and generates fear.
- The Holy Spirit gives encouragement. Satan brings discouragement.
- The Holy Spirit helps to discipline us. Satan tries to destroy us.
- The Holy Spirit convicts us of sin. Satan encourages us to sin.
- The Holy Spirit points us to God. Satan focuses on our weaknesses and failings.
- The Holy Spirit confirms that confessed sin is forgiven. Satan tells us it is not.
- The Holy Spirit reminds us there is hope. Satan tells us there is no hope.
- The Holy Spirit encourages fellowship with believers. Satan discourages it.
- The Holy Spirit points us to God’s Word. Satan points us to our feelings.
- The Holy Spirit reminds us of the cross. Satan reminds us of our own works.
- The Holy Spirit reassures us of God’s love. Satan accuses and says we’re hated and rejected.
This is an extract from the book Discipleship for Everyday Living by Mathew Backholer and is used with permission.
By Mathew Backholer. Find more about Mathew’s books here.