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Together in Christ: 'Demonstrating the Spirit's Influence' — Galatians 5:25-26 Friday, July 12, 2024 Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit's leading in every part of our lives. Let us not become conceited, or provoke one another, or be jealous of one another. — Galatians 5:25-26 NLT Key Thought Jesus promised His followers that the Holy Spirit would be like rivers of living water flowing from their hearts. [1] Paul taught Jesus' disciples that the Holy Spirit would pour love into their hearts [2] and transform them to be more like Jesus each day. [3] So, when we are conceited, are jealous of one another, or provoke each other, we are going against the work of the Spirit in our lives and are bringing "sorrow to God's Holy Spirit by the way [we] live." [4] Instead, as Paul shared with each new believer in Asia Minor: Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you. Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do because you are his dear children. Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ. He loved us and offered himself as a sacrifice for us, a pleasing aroma to God. [5] In our relationships with people — both those who are brothers and sisters in Christ and those we are trying to lead to Jesus — we want to follow the Spirit's lead and let the fruit of the Spirit [6] and the example of Jesus come through in our own lives! [1] John 7:37-39. [2] Romans 5:5. [3] 2 Corinthians 3:18. [4] Galatians 5:22-23; Ephesians 4:30. [5] Ephesians 4:31-32, 5:1-2. [6] Galatians 5:22-23. TODAY'S PRAYER Almighty God, I believe You live inside me through the Holy Spirit to conform and transform me to Jesus. I offer my heart and will to You to make me a person who blesses people and doesn't wound them. I am asking for Your grace and power to help me as I yield myself to You so that You can use me to bless others through what I do and say and how I respond. In Jesus' name and by Jesus' authority, I pray. Amen. RELATED SCRIPTURE READINGS Galatians 5:13-16 Matthew 5:3-12