Live by the Spirit

​Scripture:  Galatians 5:19-24  “Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that ‘those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.  But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.”

Observations: Deuteronomy had more laws in today’s readings. Interesting rules concerning marriage and death.  Would you want to be your brother-in-law’s wife?  Hmmmm.  Then there is a discussion about fighting.  Be careful what you touch.  Chapter 26 outlined offerings and tithes.  We are not that type of a community, but there are still some good comments about how we treat others.  In chapter 27 there is instruction to build an altar, and then the people were commanded to stand on the mountains while curses were read.

Application:  When you read today’s scripture, I hope it becomes clear why a person would be better off living by the Spirit than by the flesh.  The flesh brings disorder and unhappiness.  The Spirit gives you a good feeling overall.  I know self-control is difficult on our own, but if we are led by the Spirit, it is just a way of life.  It isn’t that hard.  It is just called submission, giving up our own sinful desires and living by God’s desire.  It actually frees us from bondage. 

Prayer: Lord it is so easy, especially when we have all this time to ourselves, to fall into the self-pity trap and let our flesh take hold.  Remind us to stay in tune to the Spirit so we will live in joy, peace, love, kindness and especially self-control.  Lord, we praise, and thank you for taking care of each and every one of us.  Lord, bless our families, and protect them! Amen.

​Next Reading:  Deuteronomy 28-29; Galatians 6