How does "the Lord is the Spirit" influence your daily walk with God? The Heart of the Verse 2 Corinthians 3:17 says, “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” What It Means • “The Lord” — Jesus is not distant; He is present in the Person of the Holy Spirit. • “Is the Spirit” — a literal statement that the divine Spirit indwells every believer. • “Freedom” — release from sin’s power, fear, and the futile effort to earn favor with God. Freedom Applied to Everyday Life • Freedom from guilt: the Spirit continually reminds you you’re forgiven (Romans 8:1). • Freedom to obey: He empowers righteous choices (Galatians 5:16, “Walk by the Spirit…”). • Freedom to witness: boldness comes from His presence (Acts 1:8). • Freedom in worship: heartfelt, joyful, unforced (John 4:24). • Freedom from fear of the future: the Spirit is the “deposit” guaranteeing what is to come (Ephesians 1:14). Living Moment-by-Moment in That Reality 1. Acknowledge His nearness • Begin the day: “Spirit, thank You for being here.” 2. Stay sensitive • Quick confession keeps fellowship clear (1 John 1:9). 3. Listen and obey promptly • He speaks through Scripture (John 14:26) and a Spirit-shaped conscience. 4. Depend, don’t perform • Replace self-effort with Spirit-reliance: “Be filled with the Spirit” (Ephesians 5:18). 5. Expect guidance • “All who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God” (Romans 8:14). Practical Habits That Cultivate Spirit-Led Freedom • Scripture saturation: He authored it; He illuminates it. • Continuous prayerful dialogue: short, honest conversations all day. • Fellowship with other believers: the Spirit often speaks through the body. • Worship in song: truth-filled lyrics tune the heart to His voice. • Service: stepping out in faith lets you feel His power working through you. Promises to Carry into Each Day • “He lives with you and will be in you” (John 14:17). • “If Your Presence does not go with us, do not send us up from here” (Exodus 33:15). • “Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom” (2 Corinthians 3:17). The Lord is the Spirit—live today in the liberty His indwelling presence provides. |