1. Live by the Spirit (16-21)

Paul urged the Galatian Christians to live by the Spirit. One can either live by the Spirit or by one's sinful nature. What does it mean to live by the Spirit? It is not giving in to the sinful nature. The two cannot coexist. They are in conflict with each other. It is also not being under the law. When we live by the Spirit, we are free of the law and our sinful nature. Those who live by their sinful nature and indulge in things like sexual immorality, impurity, debauchery, hatred, discord, jealousy, etc., cannot and will not inherit the kingdom of God.

2. The fruit of the Spirit (22-26)

The fruit of the Spirit is very different from the fruit of our sinful desires. The fruit of the Spirit includes joy, peace, patience, kindness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These are all qualities modeled by our Lord Jesus Christ. We know how we can live by the Spirit-be more like Jesus! There is no law against any of these things. When we belong to Jesus, our sinful natures have been crucified, and we live by the Spirit.


Application: Lord, thank you for granting the Holy Spirit to us. Help us to live by the Spirit.
One Word: Live by the Spirit