Tuesday, August 10
Galatians 5:16-26
16
So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature.
17
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 are not to do whatever you
want.
19
The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery;
20
idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions,
factions 21
and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like
this will not inherit the kingdom of God.
22
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
23
gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.
24
Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires.
25
Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.
26
Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.
This passage tells us that the sinful nature and the Spirit of God are in conflict with each other.
What, do you think, does that mean? Does the Scripture seem to allow any room for compromise? The
Apostle Paul wrote this passage. What, do you think, would Paul say about a person who calls himself
a Christian but often partakes in the acts of the sinful nature?
We know that Jesus died so that our sins could be forgiven. But this passage tells us to avoid the
things that would have us needing forgiveness in the first place. Instead, we should chase after
God's holiness.
Memorize verses 22 and 23. Which of these fruits are in full bloom in your life? Which ones still
need to ripen? How can you work on those in the coming week?
If today's devotion spoke to you in a particular way and you feel led to share your thoughts with
others, please do so.
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