“Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.”
Galatians 5:24-25
By growing up in and out of correctional institutions and without any real direction in life, I found myself as a young adult not really knowing what it meant to be a good person, much less a godly one. I considered what I had always needed to survive, but things such as gentleness, kindness, forbearance, and goodness seemed either useless or a sign of weakness.
I knew I could be helped by joining a Bible study. So I found one attended by men I respected, and it turned out we were to study the book of Galatians. This letter of Paul’s presented the stark contrast between the works of the flesh and the fruit of Spirit. I knew the works of the flesh well—had practiced them for years! But these men shared how works that were God-honoring—the fruits of the Spirit—were a source of strength and joy.
What I formerly viewed as useless was God’s design for me as a Christian. These Christ-like characteristics are the things I can say I treasure most about myself, but only because they mirror the character of the lover of my soul: Christ Jesus.
I knew I could be helped by joining a Bible study. So I found one attended by men I respected, and it turned out we were to study the book of Galatians. This letter of Paul’s presented the stark contrast between the works of the flesh and the fruit of Spirit. I knew the works of the flesh well—had practiced them for years! But these men shared how works that were God-honoring—the fruits of the Spirit—were a source of strength and joy.
What I formerly viewed as useless was God’s design for me as a Christian. These Christ-like characteristics are the things I can say I treasure most about myself, but only because they mirror the character of the lover of my soul: Christ Jesus.
Scripture Focus
Galatians 5:19-26
Insight
Father, help me to treasure the fruits of Your Spirit, that I may grow into the image of Your Son. Amen
Bible In A Year
- Leviticus 21-22
- Psalm 57
- Luke 21