Our scripture this morning is Galatians 5:25-26 (NASB1995).
If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit. Let us not become boastful, challenging one another, envying one another.
Paul concludes his message on the fruits of the Spirit with encouragement to us that “if we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit”. This guidance is from Jesus Himself warning about the Pharisees: “So practice and obey whatever they tell you, but don’t follow their example. For they don’t practice what they teach” (Matthew 23:3). We who accept Jesus as our Savior must live what we believe on a daily basis.
This doesn’t mean we are perfect here, but we strive to be good disciples, sharing the Gospel and caring for all God’s children. Will we make mistakes? Of course. Will God forgive us? If we come in true repentance, sorry for what we have done and wanting to do better He will.
God wants us all back to be with Him eternally. We need to give up the competitiveness, envying or demeaning other’s situations. Living for the Lord means sharing what we have been given out of thanks to Him, and helping all people to know His love.
Gracious God, in Your mercy You sent Your Son to save us. We are sorry for the times we have failed You and Your children. Strengthen us in faith and send us in Your name that all the world may come to You. Amen.
