Galatians 5:22, 23


But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law ~ Galatians 5:22, 23

”But what happens when we live God’s way? He brings gifts into our lives, much the same way that fruit appears in an orchard—things like affection for others, exuberance about life, serenity. We develop a willingness to stick with things, a sense of compassion in the heart, and a conviction that a basic holiness permeates things and people. We find ourselves involved in loyal commitments, not needing to force our way in life, able to marshal and direct our energies wisely” – (The Message).

I Like how Eugene Peterson wrote these verses in his own words. They elaborate on God’s word in a language which the reader can clearly understand what each characteristic demand from us. Yet, the “demand” is not oppressive, but uplifting. It is natural, though it runs against our very nature. “When we live God’s way”, Eugene writes, and this is so! For when we live God’s way our spirit is transformed by His Spirit. Life is made new! Feelings which enveloped us before His Spirit joined with our spirit vanish, and new life begins within. How we think, how we feel, how we express ourselves is granted new quality of life. A quality of purity and righteousness, of hope and fullness. When we live God’s way, this is how we live.
Devotion by Pastor Julia


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