Word for the day by Christian Education Forum
Spiritual inventory
Galatians 5:16-24
"So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” (Galatians 5:16)
In the book of Galatians, Paul’s mission was to inform the people of Galatia that Christ died to set us free from sin and from laws and regulations. Although Christ set us free, it was not to do as we pleased but to live according to the ways of Christ, which was by love. In this passage we are shown the difference in living in the flesh versus, living in the spirit.
Living in spirit Vs. living in flesh: Paul explains that we cannot live in the spirit and the flesh. The two contradict each other. He also tells us that if we live in the flesh we will not inherit the kingdom of God. But if we live in the spirit we will obtain the fruits of the spirits: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. We live in a world where living in the flesh is so appealing. We forget that living in the flesh brings us instant gratification for only a short period of time. Whereas, living in the spirit brings us long lasting fulfillment. Whenever we are tempted by the flesh, we need to remember the cost that Christ paid for us. Through His death we have been freed from sin. Sin was destroyed at the cross of Calvary.
Take stock of the spiritual inventory
In the Holy Spirit we can be confident of the victory that has already been won.
Let’s examine our hearts today that we might kill the flesh both inside and out. Take the time today to do a “spiritual inventory” and consider whether any of the works of the flesh as in Galatians 5:19–21 are characteristic of your life. If you have a trusted, Christian friend, ask him or her which of these things might be true about you. Take time to repent and turn away from these works. Only when the flesh dies the spirit will enter. Allow the fruit of the spirit to replace the dangers of the flesh. Spend time in prayer and ask God to work in the areas of your life where you struggle most. God is asking us today to walk by the spirit.
Prayer: Father, renew a right spirit within me. Cleanse me from the sins of my flesh. Fill me with your spirit and produce in me the fruit of your spirit that I may live a life pleasing to you. Amen.
Binu Daniel, St John’s MTC , NY