Responding To The Spirit
There’s a moment we’ve all experienced—whether sitting in church, reading the Word, or in a quiet conversation—where something hits different. A verse pierces. A message lands. A truth rises to the surface and you know… this isn’t just a thought. This is the Holy Spirit speaking.
And you’re left with a choice: Will I respond, or will I resist?
Conviction Isn’t to Shame You—It’s to Save You.
Let’s be real, conviction is uncomfortable. It pushes past the surface and exposes what we’d rather keep hidden. But here’s what I’ve learned: the discomfort of conviction is actually a sign of God’s kindness. He’s not calling you out to crush you—He’s calling you close to restore you.
Jesus said in John 16:8 (NLT):
“And when he comes, he will convict the world of its sin, and of God’s righteousness, and of the coming judgment.”
Conviction is proof that God hasn’t given up on you. He’s still speaking. He’s still calling. The question is—are you listening?
The Acts 2 Moment
In Acts 2, Peter preaches with boldness after the Holy Spirit falls at Pentecost. He doesn’t hold back:
“With the help of lawless Gentiles, you nailed him to a cross and killed him.” (Acts 2:23 NLT)
Ouch.
But the crowd doesn’t lash out. They don’t harden their hearts. Scripture says:
“Peter’s words pierced their hearts, and they said… ‘Brothers, what should we do?’” (Acts 2:37 NLT)
That moment—cut to the heart—was the start of everything. The Spirit convicted, they responded, and the church was born.
Condemnation vs. Conviction
Let’s clear this up:
Condemnation brings shame and hopelessness. It says you’re beyond saving. That’s not from God.
Conviction brings truth and freedom. It says you’re not okay, but Jesus can make you whole. That’s the Holy Spirit.
When you feel that spiritual nudge, don’t run. Don’t shrug it off. Lean in. Because on the other side of conviction is forgiveness, freedom, and a Spirit-filled life.
What Should You Do?
The same thing the crowd in Acts 2 did:
“Each of you must repent of your sins and turn to God…” (Acts 2:38 NLT)
Repent – Turn around. Let go of your way and follow Jesus.
Be Baptized – Go public with your faith.
Receive the Holy Spirit – Invite Him to lead your life.
The Spirit doesn’t just convict—He empowers. He guides, comforts, strengthens, and speaks. But only if we’re listening.
Imagine If We All Responded
What if our church was full of people who didn’t just hear the Spirit—but responded?
No pretending. No pride. Just humble, honest hearts saying, “Jesus, whatever You want.”
That’s revival. That’s what changes homes, kids, marriages, and whole towns.
Let’s not just be cut to the heart—let’s give Him all of it.
If the Spirit’s speaking to you today… don’t wait.