Devotional of the week: Spirit led (4 in Fruit of the Spirit series)

Holy Spirit stained glass window, All Saints Catholic Church, St. Peters, MO, USA

…Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. 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 5:15–21

Paul, true to the tradition of his times, lists a catalog of vices and virtues as he argues for the Galatians to live fueled by the Spirit, not ruled by the flesh. The acts of the flesh that he lists in this week’s reading, and the fruit of the Spirit we read next week, would vary according to the group of Christians he’s addressing. The Galatians were split by infighting as they tried to determine who to follow – Paul or the so-called Judaizers, who wanted to impose their under-the-law practices, such as circumcision. Realizing this context helps us from making these lists an exhaustive catalog.

But the Bible speaks today, and with the context in mind, we can ask the Lord to show us where we are living by the flesh instead of the Spirit. Churches and households at odds with each other don’t bear the fruit of love.

The angry words that flew in a church I heard about left many hurt, outraged, and in pain. Those in lay leadership opposed the minister, and didn’t hold back in their public criticism, calling him deluded and other names. New to church leadership, he admitted that he could have approached the conflict differently. But yet the vicious words and attacks on his character left him reeling.

How can you support your church leaders? You might not agree with all of their decisions, but they need your love and encouragement. Perhaps you could write a note thanking them for something specific you’ve gained from their ministry. You could drop off a bag of food or goodies. If they have young children, you could offer to babysit so they can have a night off.

How will you be led by the Spirit today?

Prayer: Triune God, help me to put to death the acts of the flesh, that I might live led by your Spirit. Glorify your name through me I pray. Amen.