This week ... and over the next two to three weeks ... we will be looking at the scripture from Galatians 5:19-23. Too often, we allow Paul's famous lists of human attributes (both positive and negative) to become blurs of outdated words. Too often, it is easy to skip through the polysyllables and decide, "that's not me," or "I do most of that just fine." These two lists are essential - perhaps the most essential lists he ever wrote.
The fruit of the Spirit are the key attributes we must master to live a conqueror's life. The works of the flesh are the easiest and most deadly traps we can fall into, leaving us scarred and weak from the experience (assuming we escape at all). Each cancels the other out. It is only when we choose one list or the other that we can learn which side will win in us, for the works can negate the fruit, but the fruit can overpower the works. The choice should be easier than it is, but thanks to this study, at least we will understand them both better.
Many Christians confuse the fruit of the Spirit and the gifts of the Spirit. The fruit of the Spirit is the way in which the gifts of the Spirit are to be used by those who have been given them. Christians should use the gifts of the Spirit with love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness and temperance. As Paul told the Galatians, "Against such there is no law" (Galatians 5:23). These traits of the Spirit certainly make for a better world and a greater moving of God.
The memory verse for this week is found in Galatians 5:24 -
"And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts"
Please, please, please encourage your child to learn their memory verse. To know the word of God is such a vital part of overcoming sin and living a victorious life. God bless you abundantly in all you do to help your child live for Him. Robin, Dave and Heather
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