Live
By The Spirit
Live by the Spirit, I say, and do not gratify the desires of the
flesh. For what the flesh desires is opposed to the Spirit, and what the Spirit
desires is opposed to the flesh; for these are opposed to each other, to
prevent you from doing what you want. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are
not subject to the law. Now the works of the flesh are obvious: fornication,
impurity, licentiousness, idolatry, sorcery, enmities, strife, jealousy, anger,
quarrels, dissensions, factions, envy, drunkenness, carousing, and things like
these. I am warning you, as I warned you before: those who do such things will
not inherit the
By contrast, the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience,
kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no
law against such things.
Galatians 5:16-23
Did you know that most New Year’s resolutions last no more than
three weeks. What would happen if you asked God what He wants you to change
this year? He might tell you to: Demonstrate more of the fruit of the Spirit in
your life; love your enemies and bless those who curse you; go out and preach
to every creature; be content with the things you have; walk according to His
commandments.
As believers and new creations, we can be free from old patterns
and failures. We must ask God to help us live each day in the power of the Holy
Spirit. Then we can shed the old and embrace the new.
Resolutions are easier to keep
when
you rely on God.
Our Daily Bread – January 10, 2009