No. 314 - Walking in the Spirit

The Fruit of God’s Spirit

Walking in the Spirit

Romans 8:5 - "For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit." 

Starting Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father, I come before You today asking for Your guidance and wisdom. Open my heart and mind to understand what it means to walk in the Spirit and not in the flesh. Help me to live a life that reflects Your love and truth. In Jesus' name. Amen. 

Background

Romans 8 is one of the most powerful chapters in the Bible, highlighting the life-changing power of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers. It contrasts the life of those who live according to the flesh with those who live according to the Spirit. In verse 5, Paul emphasises the importance of setting our minds on spiritual things to live a life pleasing to God. 

Be Encouraged

Living according to the Spirit means having our thoughts, desires, and actions aligned with God’s will. It is easy to get caught up in the desires of the flesh, which lead to temporary pleasures but ultimately to spiritual emptiness. When we set our minds on the things of the Spirit, we focus on what is eternal and life-giving. This means spending time in prayer, reading the Word, and seeking God's guidance in our daily decisions. 

One practical illustration is choosing kindness over anger. When someone wrongs us, our natural reaction might be to seek revenge or hold a grudge. However, walking in the Spirit means choosing to forgive and show love, just as Christ forgave us. This not only brings peace to our hearts but also reflects God's character to others. By living this way, we bear the fruit of the Spirit, such as love, joy, and peace, which impacts our lives and the lives of those around us positively. 

Application

To enrich the application of today's message, consider these verses:

Galatians 5:16: "I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh."

Colossians 3:2: "Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth." 

Invitation

If you have not yet committed your life to Christ, I invite you to visit any nearby Church of Christ to be assisted to obey the gospel of Christ. Through faith (Hebrews 11:6), repentance from sin (Acts 2:38; 17:30-31), and baptism for the forgiveness of all past sins to be saved (Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38), the Lord will add you to His church. Here, you will continue to learn more about God and put into practice Christ's commandments (Matthew 28:18-20). Walking in the Spirit brings true freedom and joy that the world cannot offer. Share this message with your loved ones and encourage them to experience the same transformation in Christ. 

Concluding Prayer

Thank You, Lord, for the insight and guidance You have provided today. Help me to always set my mind on the things of the Spirit and live a life that glorifies You. May I bear the fruit of Your Spirit in all that I do. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

May the Lord bless your day.

 

Theodore J. Quist 

Evangelist 

Church of Christ 

Abokobi - Accra 

Ghana


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