Obedience, Integrity, and Trusting the Internal Movements of the Spirit

Obedience, Integrity, and Trusting the Internal Movements of the Spirit

How often do you find yourself seeking external signs for the right decision or direction? We live in a world that loves a “quick fix”—a clear answer, a visible sign, something to point to as proof we’re on the right track. We pray for clarity, waiting for God to show us a neon sign, to answer our prayers through someone else’s words, or to give us a dream with a specific direction. But here’s the thing—sometimes, the answer is already within you. The question isn’t whether or not God is speaking; it’s whether or not we trust the Spirit within us.

The Tension of Trusting Ourselves

For many of us, trusting the internal stirrings—the subtle promptings of the Holy Spirit—can feel unsettling. It's easier to look outside of ourselves, isn’t it? We’re conditioned to believe that wisdom comes from external sources, from other people, or from some undeniable event.

But what if trusting yourself wasn’t a bad thing? What if that internal voice—the one that aligns with God’s Word and nudges us toward obedience—was something to lean into, not run from?

Obedience That Leads to Integrity

Here’s the beauty of it: true obedience leads to integrity. When you align your actions with the internal movements of the Spirit, you’re not only obeying God—you’re honoring who He’s made you to be. The integrity comes when you stop ignoring those internal prompts and trust that God is speaking through you, not just to you.

It can be tough—because letting the Spirit examine our hearts, even in the quietest of moments, means facing discomfort, facing the parts of us we don’t want to acknowledge. But this is where real transformation happens. This is where obedience becomes something beautiful, not burdensome. It’s not about doing what’s easiest or what we think will get the “best” results. It’s about trusting the Spirit’s leading and letting it align our hearts with God’s will, even when it’s messy.

The Danger of External Validation

Sometimes, we avoid listening to the internal voice because we’ve been conditioned to not trust ourselves. This goes beyond just spiritual matters—it’s cultural too. From a young age, we’re often taught to look to authority figures, to seek approval, to find validation in what others say about us. It can be hard to unlearn that pattern when it comes to making decisions, especially spiritually.

But here’s the thing—God calls us to a deeper relationship, one built on trust and dependence on Him. When you begin to listen to His voice within you, you can take the pressure off needing everything to look perfect or for people’s approval. Obedience to God will always lead you to greater integrity, because it aligns you with His truth, His timing, and His purpose for your life.

The Cross-Examination of the Heart

Allowing the Spirit to examine our hearts, to cross-examine what we think we know, is crucial to growth. This isn't always comfortable. It’s easier to look outside of ourselves—at others’ success, at what culture says is “right,” or even at what looks good on the surface. But growth happens in the quiet moments, in the willingness to pause, reflect, and listen to what God is saying inside of you.

This is how you build a life of integrity—not by constantly measuring up to others’ standards, but by surrendering to the work the Holy Spirit is doing in your heart. When you obey those internal promptings, you become more aligned with who God created you to be, and the external signs, the big decisions, begin to align more naturally.

Trust the Movement Within You

So, how do you begin? Trust the internal movements. Trust the Spirit’s guidance within you. It's the subtle nudge that calls you to a deeper walk of obedience, to a quieter, more honest life. It’s not about doing what feels “easiest,” it’s about doing what’s right—even when no one is watching or validating your decisions. Obedience, the kind that leads to integrity, is quiet and unassuming but produces a deep well of peace.

Let go of seeking external validation. Trust yourself. Trust the Spirit within you.

And remember, obedience isn’t always grand—it’s often just taking the next small step, trusting God to lead, and knowing that He’s shaping you in the process.

If you're struggling to discern God’s voice or feel stuck in indecision, let's work together. Through Christian spiritual direction, we can create space to listen to God, respond to His call, and move in obedience that leads to integrity.

Take the next step in your spiritual journey—let’s explore what God is saying to you today. Book a spiritual direction session today and learn to trust the Holy Spirit within you.