Freedom In Christ
BRD REFLECTIONS
Galatians 5 and Psalm 95 (NIV)
(Alvin Chia, Associate Lay Leader)
READ:
Galatians 5 (NIV)
OBSERVE:
We live a life of constant conflict.
vv19-21: The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of anger, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like.
vv22-23: But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.
Paul exhorted that as Christians, we are called to be free (v13). He urged the Galatians to walk by the Spirit, and not gratify the desires of the flesh (v16).
APPLY:
The daily grind and struggle between my sinful self and the Spirit-led life is a real and agonising battle. While I want to live a life led by the Spirit, I am constantly exposed to the elements of fighting with my sinful self. At home, family relationships are tested daily. At work, the pressure of delivering results and being confronted with competing interests cause much pains, quarrels and griefs. Even in church ministry, relationships are tested by differences of views and opinions. In all honesty and reality, life is hard and challenging on all fronts.
The passage today reminds us that we need not live a defeated life. Paul highlighted that the key is in Christ! If we allow Him, He will come into our lives and take control of the mess in us! It is not easy. We will always want control and do things in our own ways. However, there are no two ways about it. Unless we cede control to Him, we will continue to struggle. I therefore have to make the choice. My way or His way.
DO:
While it is not easy, I will continue to be disciplined to be an Intentional Disciple. I will commit to :
– Remain in Him (John 15:5);
– Read the Word daily;
– Pray and seek Him in all circumstances;
– Reflect daily on my actions;
– Seek forgiveness for sinful actions, words and deeds;
– Seek to deny myself, take up the Cross and follow Him (Mark 8:34).
PRAY:
Father Lord, I want to live a free and victorious Christian life. You know I am weak. I need Your help. I believe that I can do all things through You who strengthen me. I pray that You will strengthen me. Sustain me in the daily discipline of surrendering myself and to take up the Cross and follow You. I pray for more of You and less of me. Help me to abide in You and look to You at all times. Have mercy on me. This I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.
