Useful Bible Studies > Romans Commentary > chapter 8
A good father teaches his children (Proverbs 4:1-9). He knows that, without his wise instructions and advice, they would make many foolish mistakes. So, he considers it his duty to teach them how they should live (Proverbs 22:6).
God has chosen to adopt his people as his own children (John 1:12-13; Romans 8:23). That is a very great honour for them (8:17-18); we cannot even imagine how wonderful it will be (1 Corinthians 2:9; Revelation 21:1-4). However, while they remain in this world, they have many enemies, and many difficulties to overcome (8:35-39). Of course God has not left his people alone in this situation, like children without a father (John 14:16-18). He has sent his Holy Spirit to guide and to direct their lives.
The Holy Spirit does that in many different ways. He teaches people through the Bible (1 Peter 1:11-12); he reminds them of the things that Jesus taught (John 14:26). He shows people how to live in the manner that pleases God (Galatians 5:22-23). He can use the circumstances of people’s lives to warn them (John 16:7-8) or to correct them (Hebrews 12:5-11). He can give them a special message from God for their particular situation (Acts 16:6-10).
Good children recognise the wisdom in their father’s advice. From it, they learn to live in a good and useful way (Proverbs 23:24). They consider this wisdom to be more precious than anything else that their father may give them (Proverbs 8:10-11). So of course God’s people should allow his Holy Spirit to guide them. They should not depend upon themselves and upon their own plans (James 4:13-15). Instead they should trust God, and he will direct their lives (Proverbs 3:5-6).
Next part: Abba, Father! (Romans 8:15)
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© 2022, Keith Simons.