Walk by the Spirit
Today’s reading is out of Galatians 5:16-21. Begin today’s devotion by reading this passage in your Bible.
When it comes to our physical and spiritual growth, we often try to start by “cleaning up” our behaviors. While this is important, it’s not necessarily the best place to start. Rather than beginning on the outside with our external behaviors, invite the Holy Spirit to start His transformation inside of us. He can change us from the inside out, and to see that change, we are called to walk through life following the Holy Spirit’s leading. Let’s reflect on what this looks like.
Galatians 5:16-21 16 So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.17 For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want. 18 But if you are led by theSpirit, you are not under the law. 19 The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery;20 idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions 21 and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.
Reflect
- At the end of vs. 17, what is the reason we desire to do things that are in conflict with the Spirit?
- Keep reading vs.19-21, and you’ll notice that Paul shows us some things which our flesh desires. What are some things you observe about this list?
- When we walk with the Spirit, Paul says that we will not desire to do the things listed above. What are some ways that we can actively and consistently walk with the Spirit?
Act
Each day this week, pray through your calendar and ask the Holy Spirit to guide you through every stage of your day.
Write down what you hear and what you experience as you walk each day with the Spirit.
Pray
Holy Spirit, open my eyes to opportunities to respond to others the way You would desire. I’m ready to listen to You as I interact with my family, neighbors, co-workers and anyone I come in contact with. Transform my heart so that I can continually become more like You. Amen.