Conditions for Spirit Filling

“And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit,” (Ephesians 5:18, ESV) In the previous post we looked at a key verse regarding being filled with the Spirit. In it we saw two commands that presented a contrast for the believer. One was in the negative, “doContinue reading “Conditions for Spirit Filling”

Avoid Incorrect Influencers

“And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit,” (Ephesians 5:18, ESV) As we dig deeper into the ministry of the Holy Spirit in leading us on the right path, we need to understand how this works and, more importantly our part in this. In the previousContinue reading “Avoid Incorrect Influencers”

Crucifying the Flesh

“And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.” (Galatians 5:24, ESV) In a writing by A. W. Tozer, he gave this thought. I’ll paraphrase his sentiment like this. In every Christian’s heart there is a cross and a throne. The Christian must leave the throne and putContinue reading “Crucifying the Flesh”

Spiritual Diagnosis – Part 2

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.” (Galatians 5:22–23, ESV) When I was in college, I took an elective course in photography. It was in the days of cameras that used photographic film. Moreover, all the photography we didContinue reading “Spiritual Diagnosis – Part 2”

Spiritual Diagnosis – Part 1

“Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.” (Galatians 5:19–21, ESV) RecentlyContinue reading “Spiritual Diagnosis – Part 1”

Who Is Leading Your Life?

“But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law.” (Galatians 5:18, ESV) Leadership means a lot. In most cases it means everything. In my adult life, I have served in various leadership positions. I also have worked under many leaders. Some of the leaders I have served under and observedContinue reading “Who Is Leading Your Life?”

The Great Battlefield

“For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh, for these are opposed to each other, to keep you from doing the things you want to do.” (Galatians 5:17, ESV) Conflict has been a constant theme throughout history. We are now in the playoffContinue reading “The Great Battlefield”

Living in Freedom Having Victory

“But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” (Galatians 5:16, ESV) Once time I was teaching a seminary class on Systematic Theology. The particular lesson was on the theology of the Holy Spirit. I happened to site Galatians chapter 5 verse 16 in the class. IContinue reading “Living in Freedom Having Victory”

Freedom and The Power of Love

“For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. For the whole law is fulfilled in one word: ‘“‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’” (Galatians 5:13–15, ESV) In 1985, Huey Lewis and the News released a hit songContinue reading “Freedom and The Power of Love”