Paul’s Instructions: Don’t Quench the Spirit, Hold On to What Is Good
Devotional Reading: “Never restrain or put out the fire of the Holy Spirit. And don’t be one who scorns prophecies, but be faithful to examine them by putting them to the test, and afterward hold tightly to what has proven to be right.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:19–21 (TPT)
You can’t claim to be on fire for God if you keep pouring cold water on what He’s doing inside you. Paul’s words here are so practical: “Never restrain or put out the fire of the Holy Spirit.” The Spirit’s fire is what keeps you passionate, discerning, and alive to the things of God. But when you constantly ignore His promptings, skip His whispers, or let sin take the driver’s seat, that fire begins to fade. It’s not that the Holy Spirit leaves you; it’s that you stop letting Him lead you.
Then Paul says, “Don’t be one who scorns prophecies.” Sometimes God speaks through people you least expect; your children, a friend, or even someone who’s not “your type.” But pride can make you roll your eyes and miss the message.
The instruction is not to swallow everything you hear, but to test everything by God’s Word. It’s like sorting through ripe and rotten fruit you don’t throw away the whole basket just because of one bad apple. Examine what you hear, hold tightly to what’s right, and discard what isn’t. Maturity means having discernment, not cynicism.
Finally, Paul says, “Hold tightly to what has proven to be right.” In a world that celebrates “new” over “true,” believers must learn to stay grounded in tested truth. You don’t need to chase every new teaching or trend. If it draws you closer to Christ, produces love, and aligns with Scripture, keep it! The Holy Spirit’s fire thrives in hearts that are humble, discerning, and teachable. Don’t just carry the flame, protect it. Feed it. Let it shine through your life daily.
Prayer and Confession
Holy Spirit, I give You full permission to work freely in me. Help me to recognize Your voice and never take Your fire for granted. I receive grace to test all things by Your Word and to hold tightly to what is true. My heart burns brighter for You every day, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Further Reading: 2 Timothy 1:6–7, John 16:13, Romans 12:11
