Spirit-led
by Carolyn Ehrlich
Click here to download your printable verse to carry with you today.
But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law (Galatians 5:18).
The new covenant that came into existence with Jesus’ death and resurrection replaced the law of the Old Testament. But here, we read that not being under the law also means we are led by the Spirit. So, what does it mean to be led by the Spirit? We read that acts of the flesh and fruits of the Spirit are diametrically opposed. If we live by the Spirit, we keep in step with the Spirit (verse 25). The challenge here is to understand what it means to live by the Spirit, to Spirit-walk, to be Spirit-led. The Holy Spirit is the advocate in our relationship with God, sent by the Father, teaching us all things and reminding us of everything (see John 14:26). If we are not Spirit-led, we will not hear what we are being taught, nor will we be reminded of what we need to know.
What is your relationship with God like? Do you hear the lessons he has for you through the Holy Spirit? Are you Spirit-led, or do you rely on yourself to independently overcome acts of the flesh and trying to live a life you hope looks like a godly life? Spirit-led lives are turned 180 degrees from independence. We come to the foot of the cross, and we repent. Then we listen, hear and do what God is asking us through the Holy Spirit. When we ask and do, then the Holy Spirit leads us away from the acts of the flesh and fills us with his fruits. Then, and only then, are we free from the law. Freedom = dependence on God. Freedom ≠ independence from God.
Father God, thank you that you gave us the Holy Spirit to lead us and free us from being under the law. Forgive me for thinking that I can act independently of you. Speak into my life through the Holy Spirit so I might Spirit-walk in a life that belongs to Jesus. In Jesus’ awesome name, I pray, Amen.
- Click here to read previous devotions.
- We are also posting them on LCA Facebook, making it easy for you to share them with family and friends.
- Sign up to receive Daily Devotion in your inbox every morning. If you’re already doing that, please encourage others to sign up. Click here for the link.