“So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh.” Galatians 5:16,17 NIV
Our present-day society encourages doing whatever comes naturally, without any regard for the consequences. Paul said those who live with the Holy Spirit, believers, are at war with “the flesh”, our old human nature. Although we’ve been given a new spirit and heart, we still live in flawed and imperfect human bodies. This means we can still be tempted by desires outside of the Lord’s will. Unfortunately, some Christians believe victory over our human nature is a one-time experience. We need to grasp that conquering sin is a moment-by-moment journey, as we walk in the power of the Holy Spirit, moment-by-moment. Sadly, some people’s faith never grows past waiting for that “magic” event, when all temptation ceases, and sin disappears. In the meantime, they’re frustrated by their failures as a disciple of Jesus. Even after three years in the constant company of Jesus, the disciples couldn’t live the Christian life on their own. Knowing they were too weak in the flesh to faithfully teach the Gospel or set a godly example, Jesus commanded them to wait for the Holy Spirit. This third person of the Trinity provided them with strength, guidance, and wisdom. Nothing has changed. Apart from God’s Spirit, we cannot overcome our old human nature and live in God’s will. But, with the Spirit, we’re assured of fulfilment and peace as we serve the Lord.
PRAYER THOUGHT
Lord, through Your indwelling Holy Spirit we have victory over sin.
PRAYER FOR TODAY
Lord, we acknowledge that apart from Your Holy Spirit, we cannot overcome our old human nature and live in Your will. But, with Your Holy Spirit, we’re assured of fulfilment and peace as we serve our Lord Jesus. AMEN
INTERNATIONAL BIBLE READING ASSOCIATION (IBRA)
Matthew 12:38-50
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