Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another.
Catch the past tense in that first sentence highlighted? Have crucified? Not any wiggle room there. Is this what Jesus meant when He said, "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.(Luke 9:23)? it certainly has to be a daily process for me. How about you?
Look at the second sentence. It reminds me of watching a precision drill team demonstrate their talent. Or of the comment I have heard from Marines, "When a DI says jump, ask how high on the way up" Obedience!
Now back to that last sentence: surely Paul didn't think he had to remind me, of all people, to not be conceited, not to provoke a fellow saint or suffer from envy? I probably haven't had to struggle with those for maybe the last hour, but when I have to spend some time with a fellow believer, watch out. Old Nick never misses an opportunity to spoil my witness.
Today's readings in the Psalms:
Morning: Psalm 118
Mid-day: 119:169-176
Evening: Psalm 44
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Voices Together is available as an annual daily devotional and can be purchased at theFellowship Of Ailbe bookstore. A weekly edition, formatted as a bi-fold insert and suitable for distribution can be downloaded at https://www.ailbe.org/resources/item/5828-2015-voices-together-weekly-devotionals. The next edition is available by Thursday of the prior week.
