Introduction
In Galatians 5:19-21, the apostle Paul outlines the works of the flesh, emphasizing their incompatibility with the kingdom of God. The transformative power of Walking in the Spirit becomes the key to overcoming these works, allowing believers to navigate a path of growth in the Spirit.
The Necessity of Growth
Growth is not optional; it is a divine imperative for every believer. Remaining stagnant hinders progress and leaves one in a perpetual state of spiritual infancy. God has prepared more beyond our current stage, and Walking in the Spirit is the vehicle that propels us forward.
Hindrances to Growth
Despite the call to grow, hindrances abound. Galatians 5:26 warns against vain glory, provocation, and envy—elements that deflate and stagnate spiritual growth. These obstacles must be identified and overcome on the journey to Walking in the Spirit.
1. Stagnating Growth
Conscious efforts to grow are met with resistance from the adversary. Satan employs tactics to hinder believers, making them turn in circles and preventing them from advancing in God’s will. The enemy’s primary goal is to keep believers from Walking in the Spirit.
2. Pride
True growth strengthens believers in the Lord. However, seeking growth for self-glory or boasting deflates the process. Boasting obstructs the transformative power of growth and hinders the divine investment God desires to make in our lives through Walking in the Spirit.
3. Walking in the Flesh
As believers grow in Christ, their spirit man is strengthened. The enemy’s tactic is to entice believers to walk in the flesh, thereby weakening their spiritual posture. Success in this tactic renders God’s investment in believers futile, emphasizing the importance of Walking in the Spirit.
Antidote to Walking in the Flesh: Walking in the Spirit
Galatians 5:22-25 provides the antidote to Walking in the Flesh. The fruit of the Spirit, including love, joy, peace, and more, must replace the works of the flesh. This intentional shift is crucial for believers to grow and mature through Walking in the Spirit.
Urgency of Spiritual Direction
Galatians 5:16 underscores the urgency of Walking in the Spirit to avoid fulfilling the lusts of the flesh. Those given to walking in the flesh bring shame to themselves and to the time God has given them. The call is clear—choose to Walk in the Spirit.
In closing, the journey of Walking in the Spirit is intertwined with intentional growth. May the Lord grant us understanding and the strength to navigate this transformative path. Amen. 🙏
