Daily Devotions: August 22, 2014

Today’s Bible reading is Galatians chapter 5

(Read the entire New Testament in 2014 by reading only one chapter each day)

Paul told the Galatians church, “Ye ran well. Who hindered you from obeying the truth?” (Galatians 5:7)
The Galatians were in danger of slipping. False teachers infiltrated the church and were misleading the people. These teachers were attempting to add to the Gospel things like circumcision. Paul said, “I could wish that those who trouble you would even cut themselves off! For you, brethren, have been called to liberty; only do not use liberty as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.” (Galatians 5:12-13)
Paul properly understood and applied the Old Testament Law. He said, “The Law is fulfilled in one word… you shall love your  neighbor as yourself. But if you bite and devour one another, beware lest you be consumed by one another!” (Galatians 5:14-15)
The only way to conquer the flesh is to walk in the Spirit. The Law cannot produce righteousness in us, it can only show the weakness of our flesh and our need for a Savior. The Galatians were being deceived into thinking they must keep the Law to be justified. They were falling away from the grace way. Paul pleaded with them to turn back to faith in Christ. It is not only true of the Galatians, but it is true of us as well. Is there anything or anyone hindering you from walking with God? Have you gotten off track from where you started? Are you still running the grace race? Those who belong to Christ have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Living in the Spirit means walking in the Spirit, and bearing the fruit of the Spirit.

Prayer: “Dear Lord, help us to demonstrate our righteousness by loving and serving others and bearing the fruit of the Holy Spirit, and being one with Your people. In Jesus name. Amen.”

Randy J. McPheron