Walk in the Spirit

“But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh. For the flesh sets its desire against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are in opposition to one another, so that you may not do the things that you please. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the Law.” Galatians 5:16-18

There is only one way to walk, no matter how fast you stroll - one step at a time. The biblical command for believers to “walk by the Spirit” is obeyed and practiced in the same sense - one decision at a time.

You are driving on a long trip to visit your folks for Thanksgiving. In the back seat, friction is rising between your ten year old and twelve year old. You have a decision. Will you lose your temper and discipline the children, or will you firmly correct them with your emotions under the Spirit’s control?

Such are the constant choices each individual makes to “walk by the Spirit.” It is not a mystical type of experience but practical submission to God’s will in everyday circumstances. Walking in the Spirit is thus a cultivated lifestyle, learning to act and react under His direction and influence rather than being controlled by temperament or personality. Each day brings increasing cooperation with the Spirit’s will and power. You can “walk by the Spirit” one trusting step at a time. Begin with the next decision you must make.

“If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit.” Galatians 5:25