“It is for Freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery… Galatians 5:1
For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision has any value. The only thing that counts is FAITH expressing itself through LOVE… Galatians 5:6
But the fruit of the Spirit is Love, Joy, Peace, Forbearance, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, and Self-control…
Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.”
Galatians 5: 22-25
Meditation:
Our consumer culture seems completely devoid of any moral compass, constantly leading us towards temptation. Turn on the TV, watch any movie, listen to any song, look at any advertisement online or on the TV or in a movie...we are constantly bombarded by sins of the flesh: lust, violence, gluttony, greed, envy… It is not always easy to control our natural urges…
Sins are like credit cards: enjoy now; pay later…
As followers of Jesus, the task of resisting these temptations may seem daunting, and it is. However, considering the consequences of relenting and giving in to these temptations, it is obviously worthwhile.
In the new testament, Paul writes that circumcision, a commandment of Moses, is no longer necessary and does not measure the worth of a man (Galatians 5:6). In the new testament, Paul also writes about the sins to avoid, but he also mentions what we should pursue: love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, gentleness, goodness, faithfulness, and self-control.
This means that sin shoud be avoided and you pursue a life of love and compassion with gentleness and self-control. It may sound difficult when you read the words, but it is a guide to make our lives and the world as God intended, one of eternal peace and harmony.
Prayer:
Our Father in Heaven, thank you for sending Jesus as our Savior, who paid in full for all our sins, and for anointing us with the Holy Spirit who is our Protector, Comforter, and Leader… in Jesus’ name we pray. Amen!
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