photo #9407531

25. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Galatians 5:25; KJV. Paul teaches in Galatians 5 that Christ has set believers free from the bondage of trying to earn righteousness through the law. However, freedom is not a license to sin; instead, Christians are called to walk in the Spirit. Paul contrasts the destructive works of the flesh with the beautiful fruit produced by the Holy Spirit. As believers submit to the Spirit's leadership, they increasingly display the character of Christ in their daily lives. Christ set us free from condemnation, the penalty of sin, and the attempt to earn salvation; do not return to the chains Jesus removed for us. Paul's instruction is to walk in the Spirit, not in the flesh—sarx in Greek—meaning our sinful human nature. Sins of the flesh fall into categories of sexual sins, religious sins, relationship sins, and personal sins. These sins destroy lives, families, and churches. Paul says the fruit—not fruits—of the Spirit, this is one fruit: a Christ-like character expressed in many ways: love, joy, peace, gentleness, goodness, faith, and temperance. Temperance, or egkrateia in Greek, means self-control; allow the Spirit to govern your desires and impulses. For practical application in life, ask daily: What would honor Christ this day? What attitude would please God this day? How can I submit to the Spirit's leadership this day? The lessons learned are that Christ has freed us from bondage to sin. Every believer will experience spiritual conflict because the Spirit opposes the flesh. Victory comes through walking with the Spirit. The fruit of the Spirit is the image of Christ. Spiritual growth is gradual, like fruit growing on a tree. Stay united with believers and avoid the works of the flesh, as they are truly destructive. Amen.