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Behaviors That Hinder the Holy Spirit

May 19, 2025

Five Toxic Behaviors That Push the Holy Spirit Away

Introduction

  • Influence of the Holy Spirit: As believers, the Holy Spirit is always with us. However, our behaviors can minimize His influence and make us unresponsive to His voice.
  • Galatians 5:17: Highlights the internal conflict between sinful desires and the Spirit's desires.

Toxic Behaviors

1. Laziness

  • Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:24ff): Emphasizes stewardship and the importance of using God-given gifts and time responsibly.
  • Potential manifestations:
    • Not using spiritual gifts.
    • Avoiding ministry responsibilities.
    • Prioritizing entertainment over Godly pursuits.
    • Lack of action when prompted by the Holy Spirit.
    • Nature of the Holy Spirit: Works through diligent vessels.

2. Negative Thinking

  • Doubtful Mindset (James 1:5-8):
    • Doubting the reality of the Holy Spirit's guidance.
    • Trusting worldly wisdom over God's word.
    • Toxic self-talk.
  • Anxious Mindset (Matthew 6:24-26):
    • Worrying about material needs.
    • Fear-based thinking fueled by media.
    • Withholding generosity due to fear.

3. Procrastination and Rushing

  • Procrastination (Luke 9:59-62):
    • Delay in obeying God's instructions is disobedience.
    • Avoiding reconciliation and forgiveness.
    • Postponing calling for future convenience.
  • Rushing (Exodus 32:1-4):
    • Creating idols due to impatience.
    • Forsaking God's timing for personal agendas.

4. Mocking the Holy Spirit's Power

  • Quenching the Spirit (1 Thessalonians 5:19-20):
    • Dismissing spiritual gifts and manifestations (tongues, prophecy).
    • Sarcasm and criticism towards the Spirit's work.
    • Shutting down genuine worship expressions.

5. Fear of Man

  • Fear vs. Godly Fear (Luke 12:4-5, 1 Samuel 15:24):
    • Changing beliefs/theology to fit in.
    • Altering actions due to outside pressures.
    • People-pleasing minimizes the Spirit’s influence.

Conclusion

  • Prayer for Humility and Repentance: Encouragement to welcome the Holy Spirit’s influence.
  • Call to Action: Support the ministry through giving, reflecting the Holy Spirit's generous nature.
  • Further Study: Directed towards additional resources and content for deeper understanding.

Full transcript