God is Strong When You Are Weak
Today, we're delving into Lesson 10, "Inner Struggles," with devotional reading from Isaiah 44:21-28 and Galatians 5:13-26 as our guiding scripture. These passages help us understand how to navigate our internal battles with the help of the Holy Spirit.
Our key verse for review (as well as others of course), is Galatians 5:13, "You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love."
This lesson article will deepen our understanding of the Holy Spirit's role in our lives. We will explore the tangible benefits of making spirit-led choices and learn to recognize the blessings associated with divine guidance. By cultivating a deeper connection with the Holy Spirit through spiritual practices, we will develop a stronger foundation for obedience to God's Word and experience personal spiritual growth. Ultimately, this lesson seeks to equip individuals with the tools and knowledge to live a life guided by the Holy Spirit, resulting in a fruitful and fulfilling Christian walk.
Nurturing Obedience in the Face of Inner Struggles
Accepting Correction
Nurturing obedience involves accepting correction from the word of God. None of us enjoy being told we're wrong, but this is crucial for spiritual growth. God may send people into our lives to correct us, which can be challenging but necessary.
Personal Struggles with Obedience
Personally, my struggle involves knowing when to step back from battles. Thriving in confrontation, especially with church leaders, makes it difficult to heed God's call to step away. This highlights the importance of not becoming what we oppose. We must not become evil in battling evil.
The Importance of Spiritual Practices
Following the Guidance of the Holy Spirit
Obedience requires us to follow the Holy Spirit's guidance, even when it means accepting correction. Jesus instructs His disciples to shake the dust off their feet when a town does not welcome them (Matthew 10:14). Accepting correction is a significant part of spiritual obedience.
Spiritual authority comes with the responsibility to accept correction. The gift of prophecy and the apostolic gift both come with this expectation. No one, including church leaders, is above the word of God. Recognizing and accepting this is crucial for nurturing obedience.
Experiencing the Presence of the Spirit
Freedom Through the Spirit
Galatians 5:13-16 calls us to use our freedom not to indulge in the flesh but to serve one another humbly in love. Walking by the Spirit means we will not gratify the desires of the flesh. This freedom is for serving others in love.
Confronting Hypocrisy in Church
Self-Righteousness vs. Righteousness
Righteousness involves serving others selflessly, as Jesus did when He washed His disciples' feet (John 13:1-17). In contrast, self-righteousness demands service from others. True spiritual authority requires us to accept correction and offer it lovingly.
Correction must be done in love, as outlined in Matthew 18:15-17. Confronting others in love and accepting correction ourselves prevents hypocrisy and promotes spiritual growth. The loudest accusers are often guilty of the same faults they condemn in others.
Recognizing and Overcoming Inner Struggles
The Struggle Against the Flesh
Galatians 5:17-21 describes the ongoing battle between the flesh and the Spirit. The works of the flesh include a wide range of sins that believers must constantly battle. Even Paul acknowledged his struggle with sin (Romans 7:15-24), highlighting the universal nature of this battle.
Believers struggle with various forms of idolatry, uncleanness, and other sins. Recognizing these struggles and repenting is crucial for spiritual growth. David's life exemplifies this; despite his many faults, he was a man after God's own heart because he constantly sought God's forgiveness (Acts 13:22).
Living by the Spirit
Fruits of the Spirit
Galatians 5:22-26 lists the fruits of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These fruits are the evidence of a life led by the Spirit. Believers must strive to exhibit these qualities in their daily lives.
Relationship Between Gifts and Fruits
The gifts of the Spirit must produce the fruits of the Spirit. It's not enough to possess spiritual gifts; they must lead to tangible fruits in our lives. This transformation is evidence of true spiritual growth and obedience.
Conclusion
A Call to Repentance and Reflection
All believers struggle with sin, but the key is repentance and a continual return to Jesus. Church leaders, evangelists, and all Christians must constantly seek God's guidance and be willing to accept correction. This humility and openness are essential for true spiritual growth and avoiding hypocrisy.
Final Encouragement
Whatever your struggle, remember that all believers face challenges. The Bible says that anyone who claims to be without sin is deceiving themselves (1 John 1:8). Continual prayer, fasting, and seeking God's will are essential. Reflect on your calling and ensure it aligns with God's purpose to avoid running the race in vain.
By embracing correction, nurturing obedience, and walking in the Spirit, believers can overcome inner struggles and live lives that honor God.
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