Reformation Lutheran 1997 Lenten Devotional - Number 2
February 13, 1997. Today's Bible verse is Galatians 5: 16-26
Which Way Do We Go?
As we go through life, we are faced with many, many
decisions. Some of these decisions are major, such as our choice
of our partner, and others are more mundane. Some will affect
us for the moment, others for our entire lives. They involve
people and behaviors that we will attach ourselves to, good or
bad.
These choices are based on what we value, and what
direction we find ourselves headed. We make choices to please
parents, friends, our boss, spouse or family, or ourselves. But
how often do we make these decisions based on God?
When we make decisions to please others or ourselves,
it shows in the way we behave. The Bible teaches us that the
deeds of living to please ourselves include such things as immorality,
impurity, strife, jealousy, and dissension. God has said in the
Bible that people who practice such things will not inherit the
kingdom of God. But if we choose to walk by the Spirit, the fruits
include lives of love, joy, peace, patience, faithfulness, and
gentleness. The Spirit and the flesh are set against each other,
and a person cannot make choices based on both at the same time.
Let us look at our lives and reflect on what we base
our choices upon. Each decision, large or small, should be led
by the Spirit. Are they?
Prayer: Father,
help us remember that you saved us to set us free, free to put
ourselves at your disposal. Help us to be guided by the Spirit,
and center our lives in You, in all that we do. Amen.
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