Live By The Spirit
Galatians 5: 16-18. (NIVUK)
‘So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature. For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law’
How often do you do things that you wish you didn’t? For me, at Uni I was a chronic all-nighter essay writer. I remember ringing my parents at 3am in second year, bawling my eyes out because I had barely started a 4000-word essay which was due in that lunchtime. I vowed that would never happen again. Unfortunately, although I tried to stop, I continued to do all-nighters for the next two years - brilliant discipline from me!
In this passage, Paul is drilling into his readers the importance of living by Jesus’ presence and not by the law (our own righteousness). He also wants them to understand the Lord's nature versus our nature. Paul describes God's nature as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control (Gal 5: 22-23). Our ‘sinful nature’ by comparison might involve being bitter, moody, restless, rude, mean, selfish, flaky, harsh, compulsive, careless or judgemental (of yourself and others). When we put the sinful nature like that…. that is not fun!! Coming under the law of sin when you’re free is not fun! And probably, we're not that fun to be around!
What is Paul’s way to victory over the old nature? Living by the Spirit! The most exciting, life-giving journey of hearing the Spirit of Jesus and responding. To remember Jesus saying his yoke is 'light and easy', is to be reassured that living by the Spirit, though it might be stretching, will not be unbearably heavy and impossible. With his voice and his instruction comes supernatural help. He’s a loving father- so much grace is available! Let’s embrace silence, savour the Word and take time to listen to him. Gradually we learn to walk with him, in step, letting him carry our burdens (avoiding unnecessary all-nighters!!)
Prayer - Holy Spirit, I thank you that in your presence there is fullness of joy. Thank you that you don’t forsake me on this journey. Still my heart and mind to hear your voice this morning.