Life by the Spirit

Galatians 5:16-26

Life by the Spirit

16 So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature. 17 For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want. 18 But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under law.

19 The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; 20 idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions 21 and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.

22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. 25 Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. 26 Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.

Bee's Thoughts:

Our "sinful nature" is constantly battling with the "fruit of the Spirit". instead of trying to remove the "sinful nature" we should focus on the "fruit of the Spirit"... constantly allowing this fruit to be seen in our life.

"Self-control" may be the most difficult characteristics to achieve. We are to control our own thoughts, actions and desires. We are not to indulge ourselves on anything contrary to biblical teaching. So "self-control" is the mark of spiritual maturity I guess.

Dear Lord,
Help me to allow Your Spirit to work in me so that I may bear the fruit of the Spirit. Let me set my mind on things that are pure and do what's right in Your sight. In Jesus name I ask. Amen