Best Of Both Worlds! (part 2 of 2)

As we noted yesterday, to have the best of both worlds (the temporary and the eternal) is to live according to GOD'S STANDARD in the present one. That means to live in step with the Spirit of God's Will. In contrast to the "works of the flesh" we noted in the previous focus, Paul went on to state. . .

"(22) BUT THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT IS love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, (23) gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. (24) And THOSE WHO BELONG TO CHRIST JESUS HAVE CRUCIFIED THE FLESH WITH ITS PASSIONS AND DESIRES." ( Galatians 5:22-24 ESV)

Do we recognize how strikingly different this essence is from that of the flesh? Rather than adding to the conflict in this world, do we see how "the FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT" in our life can work to bring unity and peace not only with one another, but ultimately with God? One great contrast is that the "works of the flesh" are self-indulgent -- reflecting a lack of self-control -- while the "FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT" includes "self-control". Self is best controlled when the "FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT" is allowed to be produced in our life. Rather than worldly characteristics, we are to take on more and more the positive attributes of GODLY CHARACTER.

We need to remember the "desires of the flesh are against the Spirit" ( Galatians 5:17) They must not be allowed to have control over our life. As Jesus died on the cross for our sins, we are to die to sin in Him. (i.e. Galatians 6:14; Romans 6:2-6) With God's Spirit working in our life we are enabled to "WALK BY THE SPIRIT" ( Galatians 5:25) as we walk in this world.

Again, remember we are in the world, but not of it. ( John 17:14-16) That means to live in step with the Spirit of God's Will. May God's Spirit, rather than the flesh, have control in our life so that the FRUIT OF GODLINESS will become more and more evident to those around us. Such will empower us to be the light and salt ( Matthew 5:13-16) we have been called to be.

Have a great day BEING A GODLY INFLUENCE IN THIS WORLD!
Carl

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