Galatians 5:1, 13-25

Knowing My Calling......Life By The Spirit

“Serve one another in love.” Galatians 5:13

“Love your neighbor as yourself.” Galatians 5:14

We have heard these lines many times before, but what about this next one?

“If you keep on biting and devouring each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other.” Galatians 5:15

“The fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self control.” Galatians 5:22-23

Let’s be honest. It is not that difficult to serve those who welcome our service, and ooze with the fruit of the spirit themselves. It is also quite comfortable to love our neighbor when he is appreciative, and reciprocates gentleness, patience, self control, and love. It is not easy however, to love, serve, be patient with and kind to those who consistently make us feel sad and frustrated. That IS however, living life by the spirit.

It is much more natural to harbor bitterness and resentment, and far easier on the heart than to love and serve others we feel do not deserve it. The destruction that results however, is real. We tend to judge rather than love. We put down instead of building up. We take things personally and hold on tightly to those negative feelings, rather than forgiving. I’m sure glad God doesn't do that!

Our calling is to “live life by the spirit.” Not just when it’s convenient or comfortable, easy or satisfying. In fact, when it is most difficult, is when the true reward will follow.

Thank you Lord, for not giving up on us, even when we were turning away from you. During the times we were rude and indifferent Lord, you were patient and loving. When we did not deserve your time, you gave it to us anyway, and loved us, you just loved us!

Read/Listen to Galatians 5:1

Read/Listen to Galatians 5: 13-25