Church folk like to blame the Holy Ghost for a lot of poor choices. For example, if you are really in a bind about a serious decision then it has traditionally been an option to flip a coin and ‘let the Holy Ghost lead’.

If you would like to call someone out on their behavior but do not want to feel a harsh response you can start with these words: “the Holy Spirit laid it on my heart to tell you…”

If you do not have the time to practice your singing, public speaking, or music, then make sure you have been ‘anointed by the Holy Spirit’ and you are guaranteed at least a small applause.

Behind the pulpit a lack of preparation can be masked by ‘letting the Holy Spirit speak this morning’.

And if you ever feel bound by the starchy feel of some sanctuaries, just let loose with a scream, whoop, bark, or loud jibber-jabber. If people look at you funny just say you have been ‘slain in the Spirit’. They will understand that the Holy Ghost has broad shoulders and will always take the blame.

But in all reality, such behavior must sorely grieve him who searches all things even the deep things of God (1 Cor 2:10).

The Holy Ghost resides within you as the temple of God. He is not your babysitter or scapegoat.

Likewise we can all read about the supernatural power that came from those filled with the Holy Ghost at Pentecost. Yet this does not mean that the Holy Ghost is operating the same today.

Jesus told his disciples:

“Take no thought how or what thing ye shall answer or what ye shall say. For the Holy Ghost shall teach you in the same hour what ye ought to say. ” – Luke 12:12

There was no time for these men to train. The end was near, the kingdom was coming, and they were the remnant who were going into the New Jerusalem.

Yet there has since been a change in the way God operates with man. With the kingdom postponed and Israel fallen Paul was told to teach, preach, and study. He teaches Titus how to handle the opposition:

“Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.” – Titus 1:9

It is necessary for us to be taught, to train, and to study to shew ourselves approved as workman unto God (2 Tim 2:15).

So next time you feel like blaming the Holy Ghost for your poor decisions; Don’t!  Take responsibility for your choices and start truly serving the Lord with some good work.

“Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. ” – Gal 6:7