In what ways can we practically live by the Spirit daily? Our Obligation Defined Romans 8:12 – “Therefore, brothers, we have an obligation, but it is not to the flesh, to live according to it.” • Paul states we owe a debt, but not to the flesh. We owe everything to the Spirit who brought us from death to life (Romans 8:2,11). Orienting the Heart Each Morning • Present yourself: “Offer your bodies as a living sacrifice…” (Romans 12:1). • Consciously yield: “Be filled with the Spirit” (Ephesians 5:18). • Pray for guidance before decisions (Psalm 143:10). Feeding on the Word • The Spirit authored Scripture (2 Peter 1:21); He speaks through it. • Daily intake—read, study, memorize (Joshua 1:8). • Let the Word dwell richly: Colossians 3:16 pairs with Ephesians 5:18, equating Spirit‐filling with Scripture saturation. Listening to the Inner Witness • Romans 8:16—“The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children.” • Keep conscience clear (Acts 24:16). • Pause to discern promptings instead of reacting impulsively (Isaiah 30:21). Putting Sin to Death • Romans 8:13—“If by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live.” Steps: – Identify specific sinful patterns. – Confess immediately (1 John 1:9). – Replace with righteous habits (Ephesians 4:22-24). – Depend on Spirit power, not sheer willpower (Galatians 5:17). Setting the Mind on the Spirit • Romans 8:6 contrasts mind-sets. Choose thoughts that are true, honorable, just… (Philippians 4:8). • Use worship music, Scripture memory, godly conversation to re-calibrate. Cultivating the Spirit’s Fruit • Galatians 5:22-23 lists love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. • Ask the Spirit to grow each quality; respond when He gives opportunities (e.g., show patience in traffic). Staying in Step through Fellowship • Hebrews 10:24-25—meet together to stir up love and good works. • The Spirit distributes gifts for the common good (1 Corinthians 12:7). Serving exercises dependence on Him. Guarding Against Quenching or Grieving • 1 Thessalonians 5:19—“Do not quench the Spirit.” • Ephesians 4:30—“Do not grieve the Holy Spirit.” • Quick repentance, reconciled relationships, honest speech keep the channel clear. Practicing Continual Prayer • “Pray in the Spirit on all occasions” (Ephesians 6:18). • Short, constant dialogues: praise, requests, gratitude. • The Spirit intercedes when words fail (Romans 8:26-27). Living Expectantly • Romans 15:13—abounding in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. • Look for His activity; celebrate answered prayer and transformed desires. Daily, intentional dependence on the indwelling Spirit transforms routine moments into Spirit-led living, fulfilling our Romans 8:12 obligation with joy and power. |
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