“Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.”
Galatians 5:25
Most of the 5th chapter of Galatians revolves around freedom in Christ and life in the Spirit. Paul talks about the two different ways that we can live. We can live according to the flesh or according to the Spirit. One involves temporary pleasure that leads to enslavement. You become addicted to instant gratification, focus on yourself over anyone else. The other involves a denial of self, which is definitely harder. But the end result is freedom. No sin controls you. Your life will be lived in holiness rather than hedonism.
The choice between the two is clear for Christians. Even though it’s the harder course by far, we choose to live by the Spirit, to pursue freedom in Christ. We do that by living by the Spirit. We live according to the will of God, that we know is true through the gospel and through the conscience that God gives us through his Spirit. We live by the Spirit by keeping in step with the Spirit.
So how do we do that? Paul says earlier in the chapter that we have to stay true to the truth of the gospel, not to be swayed by false teaching or distractions. So the question is, what are you doing to stay in step with the Spirit? Are you committed to learning the word of God? Have you familiarized yourself enough with the true gospel that you wouldn’t be swayed or distracted by false teaching? If the answer is anything less than a resounding yes, then there has to be a change. The truth is, nearly all of us could do better. Let’s devote ourselves to scripture, to knowing it through and through. Let’s devote ourselves to prayer, to speaking and listening to God on a consistent basis.
These are the things that keep us in step with the Spirit. These are the things we need to keep our relationship with God healthy. These are the things that keep us in tune with the voice of God and the Spirit that guides us.
Prayer:
Father,
Help me to commit myself to staying in step with the Spirit you’ve sent to guide me. Help me to live not according to the flesh but according to your will. Let me not be swayed by false teaching or distraction.
In Jesus’ Name,
Amen.
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