In Step With the Spirit

Scripture – Galatians 5:22-26: ²²But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, ²³gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. ²⁴Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. ²⁵Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. ²⁶Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.

Reflection: – Often I’ve seen the “fruit of the Spirit” broken down into individual aspects. I’ve even seen them described as various “fruits” of the Spirit. However, that’s not what we read here. Real fruitful living will include characteristics like these. At the same time, it’s not intended to be a list of things to check off. It can easily become a new “law” if I’m not careful.

Verse 25 is a great guideline for us all. As I move through my daily life, what nature do I reflect? Have I made a conscious choice to let my sinful nature die – actually to kill it, as the Bible describes here? Do I embrace the Spiritual nature Christ has brought into me? I can tell as I monitor my behavior and my attitudes throughout the day.

Lord, help me live by your Spirit today. Fill me with your fruitfulness. Kill my sinful nature. I can’t do that on my own. Thanks.

How will you choose to live today?