Awareness

<<consciousness>>

In the physical world we should not be naïve, but alert to dangers and undesirable situations being prepared and taking reasonable precautions.

Just as we are to be 'awake' in the physical realm so we are not taken advantage with our lives put in danger, so it is in the spiritual where we must be vigilant and alert, being on guard as Satan is always on the prowl for unsuspecting victims (Jn 10:10; 1 Pet 5:8). The real battle is fought in the spirit realm, and we are to use the armour designed to combat the forces of evil in this realm (Eph 6:11-18). The Bible says temptation lodges in our thoughts before it is outworked in reality (Prov 4:23; Mt 12:35, 15:19; Jas 1:14). The Bible is clear we are to be renewed in our minds and bring our thought into submission (Rom 12:2; 2 Cor 10:5; Eph 4:23). What we devote our time and attention to becomes an idol, ensnaring us (Ps 106:36). Hence we are warned, "Do not let anyone [or anything] lead you astray"; God is to be foremost in our lives (Mk 12:30; 1 Jn 3:7).

We must walk with integrity and in close relationship to God, repenting of sin when the Holy Spirit brings conviction. We must follow through on His leading and promptings with action. The Bible teaches, "God is spirit, and His worshippers must worship in spirit and truth" (Jn 4:24).

In the spiritual realm, awareness understands what God thinks on a matter by having discernment or a witness in our spirit that God is with us and working on our case (Eph 5:17). Through a conscious appreciation and attentiveness to Holy Spirit discernment is cultivated – He lives within and wants to

Am I aware of His leading?

guide us continually (Ps 32:8; Jn 16:13; 1 Cor 6:19). The boy Samuel had a tender spirit that heard and responded to His voice (1 Sam 3:3-18). We too can develop a sensitive and perceptive heart by quickly responding to the Holy Spirit, yet being aware of false prophets and the deception and tactics of Satan which do not conform to Bible principles (1 Jn 4:1-6).