Flesh Vs. Spirit
Scripture: Romans 8:12–18 (NRSV)
12 So then, brothers and sisters, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh— 13 for if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live. 14 For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God. 15 For you did not receive a spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received a spirit of adoption. When we cry, “Abba! Father!” 16 it is that very Spirit bearing witness with our spirit that we are children of God, 17 and if children, then heirs, heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ—if, in fact, we suffer with him so that we may also be glorified with him.
Meditation:
Whether we move toward revival in our lives depends on how we see and experience the world. God has given us a clear choice which the above scripture outlines very well. We have the choice every moment of every day to reject the flesh and embrace the Spirit. Because the flesh brings nothing but death, however, the Spirit brings abundant life.
The first place we are to investigate whether we are living for the flesh or for the Spirit is in our own hearts. We should examine the things we do each day. Are they life giving or death dealing? Do our actions match up with Scripture? Does our interpretation of Scripture line up with the received Christian tradition? Does reason and experience show that our actions are going to bring health to our souls?
We can then examine our actions conform to the fruit of the Spirit that we find in Galatians. Are we being loving, joyful, peace makers? Do our lives reflect patience, goodness, and kindness? Would others say that we are gentle, faithful and self controlled? If we measure up to the Gospel standard we do well. If we are lacking we simply need to pray to God and God will give us whatever we lack! God wants to bring God’s new life into yours so that your soul may be revived.
Once you experience revival in your own life others will begin to notice. You won’t have to bring up spiritual matters they will just flow from the new creation you have become. Others will definitely want to know what is going on with you. Evangelism becomes easier when others come to us seeking to know how to relate to Jesus the way that you do.
It is no secret that the world we live in is getting to be a colder and darker place. (I speak spiritually here) Jesus says in Matthew 5:13–16 (NRSV) 13 “You are the salt of the earth; but if salt has lost its taste, how can its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything, but is thrown out and trampled underfoot.
14 “You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hid. 15 No one after lighting a lamp puts it under the bushel basket, but on the lamp stand, and it gives light to all in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.
It is critical that the church through all of its members begin to take seriously what if means to be salt and light. Our nation and indeed this world depend on us getting this right. Fortunately Jesus has promised to show us the way if we will just let him guide us. Let us be the salt and light that this hour demands. Amen.
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