Walking at the Spirit's Pace - Galatians 5:23

S. Galatians 5:23 “Since we live by the spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.”

O. Paul is contrasting the acts (deeds) of the flesh with the fruit of the Spirit. He then says that “those who belong to Christ have crucified the flesh.” (v.24) Christ Jesus accomplished this on the cross. When we place our faith in Christ we then can choose to also crucify, i.e., live out this reality by submitting all of our decisions and desires to the Lord and no longer live independently from Him.

When we do this, we are then able to walk in line, in step or at the same pace as the Spirit would have us walk. Perhaps like waling in unison with the Spirit.

A. I struggle to be at the same pace with the Holy Spirit because I still allow my flesh its way. I desire to live and completely submit myself to the Lord and not be independent of Him.

P. Thank you Father for this word today. Holy Spirit fill me and guide me to submit all my desires and decisions to the Lord Jesus that I might be in step with you. That I might walk or live at the same pace with you. In Jesus’ name.!

God's Miracles Are Seen By Faith - Galatians 3:3, 5

S. Galatians 3:3 and v. 5

“Are you so foolish? After beginning by means of the Spirit are you now trying to finish by means of the flesh?”… V. 5 So again I ask, does God give you his Spirit and work miracles among you by the works of the law, or by your believing what you heard?

O. The believers in Galatia had flip flopped in their faith. Leaving the teaching of justification by faith to return to law-keeping. Paul reminds them in v.5 that it was faith (like Abraham’s) that opened the door to realize the miracles that God was working.

A. Similar to Colossians 2:6-7, as we receive Christ Jesus (by faith) so we walk (by faith). We miss out on the miracles the Lord does when we observe the works of law keeping (Mosaic law attempting righteousness, gratification of the flesh, etc.) and only seeing matters through the eyes of the flesh.

P. Thank you Father for Paul’s teaching and Abraham’s example of faith. I do not desire to live by my own efforts; rather by faith - believing and seeing the miracles only you can do.

Bold Faith Leads to Bold Actions - Mark 15:46

S. Mark 15:46

“So Joseph bought some linen cloth, took down the body, wrapped it in the linen, and placed it in a tomb out of rock.”

O. Joseph of Arimathea showed his strong commitment to Jesus. He went in faith to request Jesus’ body. He paid at his expense for the linen cloth and for the preparation of the tomb. That must have taken much effort and expense.

A. Following Jesus entails a commitment of faith that moves us to act boldly, to work hard and be willing to sacrifice finances.

P. Thank you Father for the word today. Holy Spirit fill me and guide me to a lifestyle of such bold faith, hard work and sacrifice of time, talent and tithe to honor Jesus, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.