Devo Galatians 5

Galatians 5:16-26
16. So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful
nature. 17. For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the
Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in conflict with each other,
so that you do not do what you want. 18. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are
not under law. 19.The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality,
impurity and debauchery; 20.idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits
of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions 21. and envy; drunkenness, orgies,
and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not
inherit the kingdom of God. 22. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace,
patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23.gentleness and self-control. Against
such things there is no law. 24. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified
the sinful nature with its passions and desires. 25. Since we live by the Spirit, let
us keep in step with the Spirit. 26. Let us not become conceited, provoking and
envying each other.

Meditation:
1. The life of discipleship, of following Jesus, and of holiness is not defined
by what we do or avoid doing. It is characterized by vibrant, robust, and
adventurous living “by the Spirit.” Allowing ourselves to be “led by the
Spirit”, we are free to say no to the “desires of the flesh”.
2. Have I ever asked the Holy Spirit for guidance when facing a problem? What
happened? If I haven’t ever asked, try it today. Watch and see if it changes my
perception of the problem?

Personal Note:
By living by the Spirit, I will be free to say no by the desires of the flesh.  I believe the doctrine of freedom.  Biblical freedom means the freedom to obey and do what is right is God's eyes.  Freedom in the world's sense mean having lots of resources in order to gain more choices and options.  The desires of the flesh ultimately leads to bondage.

I asked the Holy Spirit to guide me in leading Crossroad.  There was a time I didn't know what to do.  Through prayer, planning, and guidance from mentors, we have seen the growth of Crossroad spiritually.  I challenge everyone if you face any problem: school stress, work stress, relational stress, family stress, self esteem issues, loss of direction, etc....  Ask God to guide you by His Spirit and His guidance is consistent with the Word of God.