Walking with the Holy Spirit: Part 4

This is the fourth part of pastor Sam Merigala sermon series "Walking with the Holy Spirit," delivered at Grace Gospel Church on June 8, 2025. In this message pastor Sam, expounds on three core aspects of a daily relationship with the Holy Spirit: the transformations that occur, how to maintain spiritual fervor, and the reality of spiritual warfare.

Transformations When Walking with the Holy Spirit

Pastor Merigala highlights ten significant transformations that Christians can expect when they walk daily with the Holy Spirit. These changes are not merely superficial but indicative of a profound shift in one's life and perspective:

1. Supernatural Peace: The first transformation is the experience of supernatural peace. Many individuals are burdened by constant anxiety, stress, and worry, carrying life's weight independently. However, when one is led by the Holy Spirit, peace becomes their natural state, a default condition. This "peace of God" transcends human understanding, guarding hearts and minds in Christ Jesus, as described in Philippians 4:7. This deep, unshakable peace remains even amidst chaos, distinguishing it from worldly peace.
2. Divine Wisdom: The second transformation involves receiving divine wisdom. Instead of making decisions based on emotions, fear, or external pressure, individuals are guided by divine insight. This allows one to view situations from God's perspective, make choices aligned with His will, and avoid unnecessary mistakes. James 1:5 emphasizes that God generously grants wisdom to those who ask without finding fault. The Holy Spirit provides not just knowledge but divine wisdom tailored for every situation.
3. Spiritual Boldness: Spiritual boldness is the third transformation. Fear loses its influence when one walks daily with the Holy Spirit. This includes overcoming the fear of others' opinions, hesitation in stepping out in faith when God calls, and doubts about one's divine calling. Acts 4:31 illustrates how being filled with the Holy Spirit empowers believers to speak God's word boldly. The Holy Spirit instills courage, confidence, and authority.
4. Heightened Sensitivity: The fourth change is a heightened sensitivity to God's presence and leading. Many wonder why they struggle to hear God clearly; Pastor Merigala explains that the more time spent with the Holy Spirit, the easier it becomes to recognize His voice. John 10:27 states that God's sheep listen to His voice and follow Him. When walking with Him daily, His voice becomes the most prominent voice in one's life.
5. Deep Hunger for God's Presence: The fifth transformation is a profound hunger for God's presence. This contrasts with feeling spiritually dry, as individuals begin to crave time with Him. Prayer shifts from an obligation to the most cherished part of the day, and worship transcends a mere church activity, becoming a lifestyle. The Holy Spirit cultivates a longing in the heart that only God can satisfy, much like a deer thirsts for water, as depicted in Psalm 42:1.
6. Increased Discernment: Increased discernment is the sixth outcome. Walking daily with the Holy Spirit enables one to perceive things others miss, recognizing deception before it takes hold and sensing when something is not of God. This allows individuals to avoid relationships, decisions, and paths that would lead them away from God's plan. The Holy Spirit opens spiritual eyes, enabling the distinction between truth and lies, thereby preventing one from being misled.
7. Divine Appointments and Supernatural Favor: The seventh transformation is the experience of divine appointments and supernatural favor. As one walks more closely with the Holy Spirit, situations seem to fall into place effortlessly. The right people enter one's life at opportune moments, doors open without force, and seemingly impossible situations suddenly shift. Psalm 37:23 indicates that the Lord makes firm the steps of those who delight in Him. The Holy Spirit actively orchestrates one's steps, opportunities, and breakthroughs.
8. Great Flow of Spiritual Gifts: The eighth development is a great flow of spiritual gifts. The closer one walks with the Holy Spirit, the more He activates the gifts inherent within them. This may manifest as more powerful prayer, prophetic insight, or miraculous healings through one's prayers. 1 Corinthians 12:7 teaches that the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each believer for the "common good"—for the benefit and strengthening of the entire Christian community, not for personal gain. Walking with the Holy Spirit daily "unlocks" these gifts.
9. Victorious Mindset: A victorious mindset is the ninth transformation. Led by the Holy Spirit, individuals break free from cycles of defeat, doubt, and discouragement. Obstacles are no longer viewed as problems but as opportunities for God to act. Instead of feeling stuck, one recognizes that God uses every situation for personal growth and preparation for greater things. Romans 8:37 affirms that believers are "more than conquerors through him who loved us".
10. Becoming a Light to Others: The tenth transformation is becoming a light to others. One's life begins to powerfully reflect God, drawing others to Him. Evangelism becomes natural, as one's life serves as a testimony. People observe the peace, wisdom, and strength in such a person and are compelled to understand what makes them different. Matthew 5:16 encourages believers to let their light shine before others, so that people may see their good deeds and glorify God in heaven.

Staying Spiritually On Fire

Pastor Merigala emphasizes that while spiritual passion can be intense, it often fades. He poses the question of why many start strong but struggle to maintain a consistent, fervent relationship with God, concluding that "spiritual fire must be fed". Just as a fire needs fuel, passion for God will diminish without intentional sustenance. God does not abandon believers; rather, their hunger for Him decreases when they cease daily seeking Him. The key to sustaining spiritual fire lies in learning to maintain and protect the Holy Spirit's presence in one's life.

Pastor Merigala outlines ten keys to keeping this spiritual fire burning:

1. Daily Prayer with Intensity: The first key is engaging in daily prayer with intensity. He notes that many pray casually, lacking passion or expectation, but James 5:16 states that "The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results". Prayer is not just speaking words; it's an engagement with God's presence. When praying with hunger and desperation, the Holy Spirit moves powerfully.
2. Living in Worship: The second key is living in worship. Worship extends beyond Sunday singing; it involves cultivating an atmosphere that welcomes God's presence daily. True worship is a lifestyle of surrender, gratitude, and adoration. Choosing worship over worry and offering praise instead of complaints keeps one's heart connected to God's presence, fulfilling John 4:23, which speaks of true worshippers worshipping the Father in spirit and truth.
3. Consistently Feeding on God's Word: The third key is consistently feeding on God's word. Many struggle spiritually because they read the Bible only occasionally. The word of God is vital fuel that keeps one's spirit alive. Jeremiah 15:16 describes God's words as a joy and delight, emphasizing the need to daily consume them as spiritual food to stay spiritually fervent.
4. Fasting Regularly: Fasting regularly is the fourth key. It helps disconnect from distractions and realigns the spirit with God. Fasting is a powerful means to increase spiritual hunger, overcome complacency, and sharpen sensitivity to the Holy Spirit. Matthew 6:16 indicates that Jesus expected His followers to fast as a normal part of spiritual life, not an option. Fasting ignites the inner fire and removes anything that dulls passion for God.
5. Staying Surrounded by Spirit-Filled Believers: The fifth key is maintaining a connection with spirit-filled believers. Isolation or surrounding oneself with people who weaken faith poses a significant threat to spiritual fire. Proverbs 27:17 states, "as iron sharpens iron so one person sharpens another". To stay on fire, one must walk with others who are also fervent for God, staying connected to a strong community that provides encouragement, challenges, and accountability.
6. Protecting Your Spiritual Environment: The sixth key involves protecting one's spiritual environment. Many allow their passion for God to wane by filling their lives with entertainment, conversations, and habits that "quench the spirit". Ephesians 4:30 warns against grieving the Holy Spirit. Pastor Merigala advises asking whether one's activities draw them closer to God or pull them away, as what is allowed into the heart either fuels or extinguishes the spiritual fire.
7. Being Quick to Repent: Being quick to repent is the seventh key. Allowing sin to remain in one's life quickly leads to a loss of spiritual passion, as sin creates distance from God, dulls spiritual sensitivity, and weakens hunger for His presence. 1 John 1:9 reassures that confessing sins leads to God's faithfulness in forgiving and cleansing all unrighteousness. Keeping a pure heart ensures the spiritual fire remains strong.
8. Walking in Obedience: The eighth key is walking in obedience. Many believers lose passion by ignoring God's instructions. Disobedience to the Holy Spirit hardens the heart and weakens sensitivity to His voice. John 14:15 states, "If you love me, you will keep my commandments". To keep the fire burning, one must obey what God has already spoken.
9. Sharing Your Faith: Sharing one's faith is the ninth key. When believers pour out what God has placed within them, He continually refills them. Evangelism, serving, and ministering to others keep one's spirit alive and engaged with God's work. Romans 1:16 declares that the gospel is "the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes". The more one shares God's love, the stronger their passion for Him becomes.
10. Expecting Fresh Encounters with God: The tenth key is expecting fresh encounters with God. Many lose their fire by settling for past experiences, thinking they "used to be on fire" instead of believing God has more for them currently. Psalm 63:1 expresses a deep longing and thirst for God. Pastor Merigala advises never settling for past experiences, but seeking Him daily for fresh revelation, new encounters, and deeper intimacy. Staying spiritually on fire is not about waiting for a special moment, but intentionally feeding the fire every single day. Applying these principles will ensure passion for God grows stronger over time instead of fading.

Spiritual Warfare

Pastor Merigala warns that the moment one fully decides to walk in the Spirit, the enemy will attempt to stop them. He notes that the enemy is not afraid of casual churchgoers or occasional prayers, but greatly fears those truly filled with the Holy Spirit, because such a believer is "unstoppable, fearless and victorious". The enemy knows that full surrender to the Holy Spirit leads to walking in power, authority, and clarity, destroying darkness.

Contrary to a common assumption that spiritual growth simplifies life, Pastor Sam states that spiritual warfare actually increases as one draws closer to God. The enemy fights hardest against those on the verge of stepping into their calling. If intense opposition, distractions, or sudden struggles arise after deciding to walk with the Holy Spirit, it is because the enemy is trying to halt progress before one becomes a threat to his kingdom.

Pastor Sam identifies ten strategies the enemy employs:

1. Distraction: The first strategy is distraction. If the enemy cannot stop someone from seeking God, he will try to fill their life with busyness, noise, and unnecessary worries. This leads to less time in prayer, feeling drained, and struggling to focus on God. The enemy knows that stealing attention can weaken one's spiritual fire, akin to Martha being distracted by preparations while Mary chose to sit at Jesus' feet (Luke 10:40).
2. Discouragement: The second tactic is discouragement. The enemy whispers lies, such as "you are not strong enough," "God is not hearing you," or "your prayers are not working". His aim is to make seeking God seem pointless. However, Galatians 6:9 encourages believers not to grow weary in doing good, for they will reap a harvest if they do not give up. Pastor Sam points out that the enemy only attacks those who carry something powerful within them.
3. Temptation: Temptation is the third attack. Just as Satan tempted Jesus in the wilderness after He was led by the Spirit, the more one grows spiritually, the more the enemy attempts to pull them back into old habits, toxic relationships, and sinful patterns. The goal is spiritual compromise to weaken power. However, 1 Corinthians 10:13 affirms that God is faithful and will not allow temptation beyond what can be endured, as the Holy Spirit provides strength to resist.
4. Spiritual Exhaustion: The fourth scheme is spiritual exhaustion. The enemy wants believers to feel tired, drained, and overwhelmed to deter them from seeking God. This often occurs when one relies on their own strength instead of the Holy Spirit. Resting in God's presence is crucial. Isaiah 40:31 promises that those who wait on the Lord will renew their strength. If spiritually exhausted, one should stop relying on self-strength and allow the Holy Spirit to refresh them.
5. Fear and Intimidation: The fifth strategy is fear and intimidation. When sensing a believer's growth, the enemy attempts to instill fear, planting thoughts like "what if you fail," "what if God does not come through," or "what if people reject you". This is intended to paralyze individuals and prevent them from fulfilling God's calling. 2 Timothy 1:7 states that God has not given a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind. The enemy uses fear because he cannot truly stop a believer, only try to make them stop themselves.
6. Isolation: Isolation is the sixth attack. As spiritual growth occurs, some friendships may no longer align with God's direction. The enemy exploits this to make believers feel alone, hoping they will return to old circles for comfort. Pastor Merigala warns against this trick, explaining that God removes certain people to make room for those who will strengthen one's spiritual walk. Proverbs 27:17 is again cited: "as iron sharpens iron so one person sharpens another," emphasizing the importance of staying connected to spirit-filled believers who offer encouragement.
7. Confusion: The seventh weapon is confusion. When great steps are imminent, the enemy tries to cloud the mind with doubt, leading one to question if they are truly hearing from God, on the right path, or even qualified. However, 1 Corinthians 14:33 reminds that God is not the author of confusion but of peace. If confusion arises, one should return to God's last instruction and move forward in faith.
8. Attacking Your Emotions: The eighth scheme involves attacking emotions. The enemy tries to evoke frustration, impatience, or offense, desiring believers to react in the flesh rather than being led by the Spirit. Spiritual maturity requires learning to control emotions, walk in love, and refuse negativity. James 1:19 advises being quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger. Mastering emotions enables believers to strip the enemy of control.
9. Hindering Your Prayers: The ninth tactic is hindering prayers. Recognizing the power of a praying believer, the enemy seeks to weaken their prayer life by making them feel too tired, distracted, or discouraged to pray. James 5:16 asserts that "the prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective". If resistance in prayer is felt, one must push through, as the moment one feels like stopping is the moment to pray the hardest.
10. Making You Forget Who You Are: The tenth and final attack is making one forget their identity in Christ. If the enemy can make a believer doubt their identity, he can steal their authority. He will remind them of past failures, convince them they are unworthy, and make them feel spiritually unqualified. Yet, the Holy Spirit reminds believers of the truth: they are chosen, anointed, and filled with power. Romans 8:37 reiterates that believers are "more than conquerors through him who loved us".

Pastor Merigala concludes this section by explaining how to fight back: not by complaining, overthinking, or relying on one's own strength, but by fighting "in the spirit" through prayer, worship, fasting, and declaring God's word. When attacks come, one should not retreat but press deeper. These attacks are not signs of failure but proof of carrying something powerful. If the enemy is fighting, it indicates God is about to do something significant through the believer. One must stand firm, continue walking in the Spirit, and know that victory is already secured. He emphasizes that knowledge alone is insufficient; one must step into action. The Holy Spirit is not merely a topic for study but a person to be experienced, awaiting invitation to fill, lead, and transform one's life.