Galatiansનમૂનો

After reading Paul's previous arguments, you might think, "Well then, it doesn't matter at all how we live as Christians. We're saved, so we can do whatever we want." Paul strongly challenges this idea. Yes, we are indeed free, but this freedom isn't a license to do as we please or to sin. It's a freedom for love.

This freedom can only be lived out responsibly when the Holy Spirit guides us, just as Ezekiel foretold (see Day 6). When you live by your own strength, you produce destructive fruits: selfishness, conflict, envy, immorality, and other things that don't fit with a life with God. Paul calls these the "works of the flesh."

It's a completely different story when God's Spirit shapes your life. Then, something grows that we can't produce ourselves: the "fruit of the Spirit." This includes love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. It's a life that honors God and is only possible through His power.

To Reflect On
How do you handle the freedom that Jesus has given you? Where do you recognize the "works of the flesh" in your life, and where do you see the "fruit of the Holy Spirit"?