How can we ensure we are living according to the Spirit daily? Foundation in Romans 8:9 “However, you are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Him.” • The verse makes a clear, literal distinction: every believer either lives “in the Spirit” or “in the flesh.” • Because the Spirit of God truly “lives” in every redeemed person, living according to the Spirit is not an optional extra—it is the believer’s new position. Daily practice flows from this reality. Recognizing the Indwelling Presence • 1 Corinthians 6:19—“Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit?” The presence is personal, permanent, and transformative. • Ephesians 1:13-14—the Spirit seals us; assurance produces bold obedience. • Romans 8:16—the Spirit testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children, giving confidence to walk in His ways. Daily Alignment of Mind and Heart Romans 8:5-6 describes two mind-sets: • Mind on the flesh ⇒ death, restlessness, frustration. • Mind on the Spirit ⇒ life and peace. Practical alignment points: – Start the day in Scripture; let God’s thoughts set the tone (Psalm 119:97). – Consciously surrender plans: “Your will be done” (Matthew 6:10). – Invite the Spirit’s guidance before decisions, large or small (Proverbs 3:5-6). Keeping in Step with the Spirit (Galatians 5:16, 25) • Feed the Spirit: consistent Bible intake, worship, Christ-centered fellowship. • Starve the flesh: intentional avoidance of inputs that provoke sinful desires (Psalm 101:3). • Practice instantaneous confession (1 John 1:9); unconfessed sin grieves the Spirit (Ephesians 4:30). • Cultivate gratitude (Ephesians 5:18-20); praise keeps the heart sensitive. • Serve others (1 Peter 4:10); self-giving love is Spirit-empowered. Guardrails for Ongoing Faithfulness • Accountability relationships—Hebrews 10:24-25 encourages mutual stirring to love and good works. • Memorization of specific promises and commands—Psalm 119:11. • Regular evaluation: “Is this thought/action compatible with the Spirit who lives in me?” (2 Corinthians 13:5). • Sabbath rhythms—rest and worship protect from flesh-driven busyness (Exodus 20:8-11). Living Out the Promise Romans 8:11—“And if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead lives in you, He who raised Christ Jesus will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who lives in you.” • The same power that raised Christ energizes obedience today. • The future resurrection guarantees present victory; we live now as citizens of the coming kingdom (Philippians 3:20-21). Summary Snapshot Daily life in the Spirit is secured by His indwelling, shaped by a renewed mind, sustained through practical disciplines, and empowered by resurrection promise. Walk in settled confidence: the Spirit of God truly lives in you, enabling moment-by-moment obedience and joy. |
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