“If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit. Let us not become boastful, challenging one another, envying one another” (Galatians 5:25–26).
Being made alive through the Spirit of God is an incredible gift! Our Savior Himself said that “...it is the Spirit who gives life” (John 6.63). Though we were all dead in our trespasses, transgressions, and sins, it was God who, through the work of His Spirit, “...made us alive together with Christ…” (Eph. 2:1-6). It’s the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus that has released us from bondage to sin (Romans 8:2). If we are indwelt by the Spirit of God, we share in the resurrection power of God (Romans 8:11). I could go on and on with references to the blessings of the life we enjoy through the Spirit of God. We should be eternally grateful for the life we live by the Spirit.
But Paul says that’s only one part of our response. Not only should be gratefully accept the life given by the power of the Spirit, we also should order our lives according to the desires of the Spirit. Not only does God make us alive, but He also directs us in the right way to keep on living. It’s at this point where some believers stall in their maturity. They are more than happy to accept the blessings of God’s Spirit, but they are hesitant to submit to the direction of God’s Spirit. It’s as if they say, “God, please save me but don’t tell me how to live.” No, they probably wouldn’t say it outloud that way, but that is how it works out in practice (or, better yet, lack of practice).
According to the inspired apostle in Galatians 5, there are ways a Spiritually-regenerated believer acts and speaks and there are ways a Spiritually-regenerated believer doesn’t act and speak. Periodically, I need to do an assessment. Does my walk match my talk? Does my practice match my profession?
How about you?
God loves you!
Mike
1 comment:
Words to take seriously.
Post a Comment