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Take The Lead, Holy Spirit
Galations 5:16 I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh.
Providing individuals with a set of rules inevitably leads to the violation of at least one of those rules. Human history reveals our consistent struggle to follow both secular laws and divine commandments. However, it is crucial that we never lose sight of our freedom in Christ. We are not free to sin; we are free from sin. We are no longer bound, but have been liberated by the sacrificial love of Jesus Christ. Paul encourages us to walk in the Spirit, keeping us from the sinful desires of the flesh. But how do we do this?
First, the Holy Spirit must live within us. When we are born again, we receive the Holy Spirit into our hearts and He begins a transformative work in us. Second, walking in the Spirit requires us to be sensitive to the Holy Spirit, allowing Him to be the central influence of our lives. We must guard our hearts and minds from all outside, evil influences. Third, we must pattern our lives after that influence. Having the Holy Spirit in our hearts and influencing us does us no good if we ignore Him completely. So if we are going to walk in the Spirit, we must live according to His influence.
The point Paul is making is that our flesh has no opportunity to sin when we are consistent in loving God and loving one another. When the Holy Spirit is the sole influence of our behavior, it is impossible for the flesh to have any power. So let me encourage you to take a moment to self reflect today. Who or what is influencing you? Clear out any influence that is not of God, and pray “take the lead, Holy Spirit!”
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