Soul Care – Relational Transformation

Galatians 5:17, tells us, “For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want.” As believers, we often still struggle with our fleshly desires which tempt us to live independently from God. Why? In our fleshly state, we are weak. But God provides the strength we need to overcome the flesh by His Spirit.

If we are truthful with ourselves, we can agree that even as believers, we all still sin. Why? It is clear, the control of the Holy Spirit is not automatic for believers. When we obey our flesh (sinful nature), we cannot live the full, abundant life Christ has for us. In fact, as believers, we have to choose – follow our sin nature or live by the Spirit in genuine freedom. What’s the difference? The flesh relies on our human independence/accomplishments and the Spirit is founded in our dependence on God (submission to His rule and plan). How are you living?

Living in our independence (our flesh) requires that we depend on human values and systems – it is rebellion the Spirit filled life God desires for us. Often it seems easier than living in dependence on God. Part of it is habitual – we often bring our idols when we come to God and resist the Spirit’s leading. How? We need to be receptive to the Holy Spirit’s teaching and guidance.

In Ezekiel 36:26-27, God promises, “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put my Spirit in you and move you to follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws.” As believers, God gives us a new heart and spirit. God’s Spirit enables us to live God’s way, in His will. This week, may we harness the power of the Holy Spirit, and seek the relational transformation available to us to live a Spirit-filled life, in obedience to God, and receive His favor and blessing.