Walking in the Spirit

“Therefore be careful how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise, making the most of your time, because the days are evil. So then do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. And do not get drunk with wine, for that is dissipation, but be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody with your heart to the Lord; always giving thanks for all things in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God, even the Father; and be subject to one another in the fear of Christ. Ephesians 5:15-21

The epistles of Paul are filled with instructions for living the Christian life. Don’t confuse them with the long lists of Old Testaments commands, curses, and blessings. These are New Testament admonitions (instruction, guidance, suggestions) which point to renewed mind and heart, not just conformity to rules and regulations.

Paul often speaks in a warning tone of voice: “...be careful how you walk...do not be foolish... understand...do not get drunk...but be filled with the Spirit, speaking...singing and making melody...always giving thanks...be subject to one another...”

This is the pattern for the child of God. Those in the world do whatever their conscience will allow. Those who are bought with the blood of Christ observe a different law and are motivated by a pure love for and fear of God.

How do you live the Christian life? First, by entering into that life by being born again by the Holy Spirit (John 3:1-21). Then you learn how to walk in the Spirit and abide in Christ (John 15).

“But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh.” Galatians 5:16