We pick the book club back up with Part II (“Looking Within”) of The Spirit-Filled Life by Dr. Charles Stanley. Tatum recaps the biblical foundation of the Holy Spirit’s indwelling (for all believers at salvation) versus His influencing (our moment-by-moment leading). Building on the recent Internal Harmony series, she explains that walking by the Spirit is not distant, rule-based “directions,” but a close, personal leading —a lifestyle of sensitivity, dependence, and cooperation. You’ll learn why the Spirit’s primary goal is to form Christ-likeness , how to fight the “battle before the battle” in your mind, and why Scripture is the Holy Spirit’s weapon of choice (the sword of the Spirit ) for dismantling lies, speculations, and flesh-driven desires. Tatum shares practical examples from entrepreneurship and life, showing how obedience positions us to avoid unnecessary suffering and walk into God’s wise, timely provision. Grab your copy: https://amzn.to/4mSGGTN Key Takeaways Indwelt & Led: All believers receive the Holy Spirit at salvation; the ongoing call is to be led by Him (Gal. 5:16, 18, 25). Rhythm > Routine: Don’t confine God to a devotional “director’s chair.” Cultivate a moment-by-moment rhythm with Him. Holiness is the Goal: The Spirit’s primary work is Christ-likeness , not quick answers about jobs, money, or moves. Battle Before the Battle: Win the mental war first—guard thoughts, take them captive, and preoccupy your mind with truth. Scripture = Sword: Use specific verses to confront specific lies; memorize and speak them out loud. Focus Forms Direction: “What we focus on, we drift toward.” Set your mind on the Spirit to avoid fulfilling the flesh. Scripture References Galatians 5:16, 18, 25 — Walk/keep in step with the Spirit Ephesians 5:18 — Filled with the Spirit 1 Corinthians 12:13 — One Spirit, one body 1 John 4:13 — Assurance by His Spirit Romans 6:11–14 — Dead to sin, alive to God Romans 12:2 — Renew your mind Colossians 3:2 — Set your mind on things above Philippians 4:8 — Think on what is true 2 Corinthians 10:5 — Take thoughts captive 1 Peter 1:13; 3:9; 4:19 — Sober-minded, repay evil with blessing, entrust to a faithful Creator Ephesians 6:17 — The word as the sword of the Spirit Practical Homework List Your Speculations & Struggles: Recurring daydreams, fantasies, mental loops. Find Targeted Verses: Use a study Bible/concordance to match each area with Scripture. Memorize & Speak Aloud: Put verses on cards, phone lock screen, mirror, or desk. Say them out loud daily. Accountability: Share your list with a trusted friend and review weekly. Pray for Sensitivity: Ask the Holy Spirit to flag thoughts not in harmony with truth. Grab your copy: https://amzn.to/4mSGGTN Our Sponsors: * Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/BLESSED Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/blessed-bossed-up7264/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
