Devotion:
Read Galatians 5:16-25.
In this scripture, Paul compares what it is to live by the Spirit with what it means to live by pleasures of the flesh. First, he sites some examples of the works of the flesh. These are prevalent when someone is separated from God. Then Paul lists the attributes of someone who is living with the Holy Spirit.
We call this list “The Fruit of the Spirit.” Notice the contrast of works of the flesh and fruit of the Spirit. The works of the flesh are what we do. But the Christian life we live is to produce the fruit of the Spirit. Paul talks about the difference between the works of the flesh with the principle of fruit-bearing. The fruit, which are traits of Jesus, is produced by being guided by the Holy Spirit which lives in us. The fruit of the Spirit is love. This indicates that love is the fruit, and from it stems all other fruits. Love is the primary trait. Love is the prevailing attribute of God and lived out by Jesus. When we are guided by the Spirit, we will be living in accordance with the two great commandments: love God and love others. When we are loving God and loving others, all of the fruits will surface and be developed.
Personal Worship Option:
Are you living by the Spirit of God or more influenced by the desires of the flesh? Is the fruit of the Spirit mentioned in Galatians 5:22 evident in your life? Dear God, help us be guided by you in our living. Amen.
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