In Order to Live, Follow The Holy Spirit
Scripture Passage: Romans 8:12-17 (NASB)
12 So then, brothers and sisters, we are under obligation, not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh— 13 for if you are living in accord with the flesh, you are going to die; but if by the Spirit you are putting to death the deeds of the body, you will live. 14 For all who are being led by the Spirit of God, these are sons and daughters of God. 15 For you have not received a spirit of slavery leading to fear again, but you have received a spirit of adoption as sons and daughters by which we cry out, “Abba! Father!” 16 The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are children of God, 17 and if children, heirs also, heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him so that we may also be glorified with Him.
SUMMARY
Paul reminds brothers and sisters of the obligation to live according to guidance of the Holy Spirit and to put to death the deeds of the body. For all who are being led by the Spirit of God, these are receiving a spirit of adoption as sons and daughters. The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are children of God and as fellow heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him so that we may also be glorified with Him.
REFLECTION AND MEDITATION
By meditating today’s passage, I was reminded of my real identity and the privilege to be adopted as a child of God. I have to cut off the deeds of my body and live by the leading of the Spirit of God. This adoption is not one time process. It is a lifestyle change to put to death living according to my flesh. The Spirit Himself testifies with my spirit. I can cry out, “Abba! Father!” However, if my heart, my speech and my action are only led by my own will, what will the Spirit testify?
APPLICATION
Throughout the book of Romans, Paul demonstrates to me that I am to be constantly reflecting on my actions and checking my heart. In this sanctification process, there is time of tribulation and trials. If I follow my humanly thoughts and ignore promptings from the Holy Spirit, that is not the way to live. That is the way to die. Several times this week, I found myself seeking to be served rather than serving others. It happens at home, at work, and in my community. I wish in my head that people can change, our society can change, and the situation can change. I shall follow the Holy Spirit’s guidance to change myself first. I would be foolish to run away from my Abba Father and turn into a lost child. My intimate relationship with God and safety provided by heavenly Father are a privilege that I shall always be thankful for in all circumstances. My application for today is to serve others at the workplace. Also, spend quality time with my family, especially when I am tired and do not feel like doing so. I shall not use it as an excuse to avoid my role as a wife and a mom that God graciously gifts me.
PRAYER
Abba Father,
How lucky I am to be able to call You my Father. Help me be thankful always. Give me strength daily to do what You call me to be. Filled me with the Holy Spirit to lead me in my daily life. I pray for the brothers and sisters in Haiti and Afghanistan. Though they suffer with Jesus Christ, they may also share His glory. Hide them under Your wing and help them remember their identity in Christ. They are all Your precious sons and daughters. May Your mercy and grace be with them. In Jesus name I pray.
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