Re-Center Around God
Galatians 5:16-18
So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law.
~ Apostle Paul
Today we review, repent and return in relation to law-keeping and/or law-breaking – or bending, tweaking, or twisting. Consider asking a few trusted friends how they would answer about you.
Review
Have you been breaking rules regardless of whether people see it, regardless of whether you're being punished for it or not? Have you been keeping the letter of the law while still violating the spirit of the law? Have you made contracts that you are not keeping with integrity? Are you bending rules in a way that the Lord would not be pleased?
Repent if Necessary
Remember that part of repenting is a willingness to change your ways. Rather than altering God’s Word, consider altering your ways. Speak your repentance out loud (but not necessarily at the office 😊).
Return (as necessary)
Return to God knowing that this is the will of the Father and the desire of the Holy Spirit. This is a great way to get back in step with the Holy Spirit. From that place of being humbly present with God, return into life in step with His Spirit.
Prayer Prompt
Ask God to help you get a practical
grip on what it means to keep in
step with the Holy Spirit and how
to practice that skill day to day.
Micro-Meditation
Psalm 119:129-136
- Your statutes are wonderful;
therefore I obey them. - The unfolding of your words gives light;
it gives understanding to the simple. - I open my mouth and pant,
longing for your commands. - Turn to me and have mercy on me,
as you always do to those who love your name. - Direct my footsteps according to your word;
let no sin rule over me. - Redeem me from human oppression,
that I may obey your precepts. - Make your face shine on your servant
and teach me your decrees. - Streams of tears flow from my eyes,
for your law is not obeyed.
Read the versus of the Psalm.
Mark the words or phrases that catch your attention.
Meditate: talk (or better, write) with God about those words. Ask him to impress things upon your heart and mind; expect responses.
Teaching or Command of God
Ephesians 6:18
Pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.
The Promise
Galatians 3:26-27
For you are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.
Pondering Point
Make Psalm 119:133-134 one of your prayers for the day: "Dear Lord, direct my footsteps…"