Spirit-led, Spirit-filled

     Hearing God’s voice may take some practice. We are used to following our own wishes and feelings and listening to the voices surrounding us. Our focus is most often on ourselves; on what is easy and comfortable, tastes good, feels good, and what takes our minds off of our jobs and our worries. Often those answers come from the world around us, not from our heavenly Father.

     Putting God first does not come naturally. The Bible is clear on the battle between the flesh and the Spirit. Here are some verses to ponder today.

For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other so that you are not to do whatever you want. Galatians 5:17

The acts of the flesh are obvious; sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery, idolatry and witchcraft, hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God. Galatians 5:19-21

     How do we tell if we are being led by the Spirit and not the flesh? Here are some of the characteristics of the fruit the Spirit brings. And remember, God grows the fruit and does the work.

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.  Galatians 5;22-23

     Walk with the Spirit and live with love, joy and peace. It may sound impossible, but the more you listen for Jesus and get to know Him more intimately, the more your desires will become His.

Jesus,

Overpower us with Your Spirit. Our lives are so short. We want them to count for You and we want to remain in Your peace. The world shouts at us and we fall into the worldly trap. Teach us. Continue to guide us each day.

Amen