Scripture
Our verse for today comes from Galatians 5:16, “I say then: walk in the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.”
Background
Our days are filled with challenges, and sometimes they begin immediately with a snooze button and can last until our head hits the pillow again that night. Being thankful for an unrewarding job can be a challenge. Not getting angry during a frustrating drive to work each day can be challenging. How about leaving yesterday’s hurt feelings and disappointments in the past rather than keeping the wound fresh until you get a chance to state your case or right the wrong? That one can challenge us almost hourly, can’t it? And when we get to where we’re going, we’re severely challenged by all the people around us who give us ample opportunity to talk about them, think less of them, or point out their shortcomings to a friend. After all, anyone can see that they have all these problems and issues that we don’t have.
Application
Oh, if we could only see how blind we are. The only challenge that I’m really faced with is whether I’ll be obedient to the Spirit that lives within me. The Holy Spirit is forgiving and humble; will I obey Him? The Holy Spirit is patient and not judgmental; will I obey Him? The Holy Spirit pursues peace and desires harmony; will I obey Him? The Holy Spirit is the God who saved me; will I obey Him? It’s not about following rules, it’s about doing what’s right in the eyes of Jesus. It’s a challenge, and one that we need to accept.
Charge
As we go today, ask God to take away the desires of the flesh, the ways of the world, and awaken in our hearts the power of the Spirit. Ask Him to make our first reaction His reaction. Ask Him to make us obedient.
