Spiriting On
What does it mean to live by the Spirit?
If we live by the Spirit, let us also be guided by the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, competing against one another, envying one another. My friends, if anyone is detected in a transgression, you who have received the Spirit should restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness. Take care that you yourselves are not tempted. Bear one another's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. For if those who are nothing think they are something, they deceive themselves. All must test their own work; then that work, rather than their neighbor's work, will become a cause for pride. For all must carry their own loads. Those who are taught the word must share in all good things with their teacher. Do not be deceived; God is not mocked, for you reap whatever you sow. If you sow to your own flesh, you will reap corruption from the flesh; but if you sow to the Spirit, you will reap eternal life from the Spirit. So let us not grow weary in doing what is right, for we will reap at harvest-time, if we do not give up. So then, whenever we have an opportunity, let us work for the good of all, and especially for those of the family of faith. - Galatians 5:25-6:10
For me, living in the Spirit is living in trust.
There was a time when I felt I needed to know what I would do in each circumstance. If this or that happens, how will I react, what should I do to prepare for such a scenario?
I quickly learned that all the possible futures don't present themselves to us.
We just don't know what we don't know, so how can we prepare?
When we take time to listen to the Spirit, we learn the real method of preparing for the unknown is to let go and let God.
We all need to carry our own load. That is what it says in today's reading, and it is true. But that means we shouldn't feel we need to carry someone else as well.
The same Spirit that guides us will guide whoever goes with us.
It makes sense, right?
No one walks alone when one walks with God, so why not let the Spirit of God be the one to show us what we need to do when the moment arises?
When I think that way, the burden of worry leaves and I can focus on the goal.
This is what we seek to do, and with God's help, we will do it.
If we truly believe, we can move mountains.
What I find the Spirit gives me is confidence. I don't have to think about the many obstacles that can interfere with the race. I just need to keep running.
That way, the journey is more fun, and I get to enjoy the scenery along the way.
More to come...