No. 317 - Living by the Spirit

The Fruit of God’s Spirit

Living by the Spirit

Galatians 5:25

"If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit." 

Starting Prayer

Heavenly Father, please help me understand and apply today's message to my life. Guide me to live and walk by Your Spirit. In Jesus' name. Amen. 

Background

Paul wrote the letter to the Galatians to address issues in the early church about the importance of living by the Spirit rather than following the old law. In Galatians 5, he contrasts the works of the flesh with the fruit of the Spirit, urging believers to live by the Spirit. Today's verse encourages us to not only live by the Spirit but also to let the Spirit guide our daily actions and decisions. 

Be Encouraged

Living by the Spirit means allowing God to guide our thoughts, words, and actions. When we let the Spirit lead us, we produce the fruit of the Spirit, such as love, joy, peace, and patience. Just like a tree needs water and sunlight to grow and bear fruit, we need the Holy Spirit to thrive in our spiritual lives. Imagine a life where your every step is guided by the Spirit, leading to growth and transformation in Christ. 

Walking in the Spirit involves making conscious decisions to follow God's ways rather than our own desires. It means being patient in traffic, showing kindness to a stranger, or choosing peace in a conflict. When we walk in the Spirit, our lives reflect God's love and truth, becoming a testimony to others. As we practice this daily, we grow stronger in our faith and closer to God. 

Application

To enrich today's message, consider these verses:

Romans 8:14 - "For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God."

Ephesians 5:18 - "And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit." 

Invitation

If you have not yet committed your life to Christ, I invite you to visit any nearby Church 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). Reflect on today's message and let the Spirit guide you. Share this message with your loved ones and encourage them to walk in the Spirit as well. 

Concluding Prayer

Thank You, Lord, for the insight and guidance from today's message. Help me to live and walk by Your Spirit every day. 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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