Galatians 5:16-21 (ESV)
We have a way of approaching the world that is based on what the Bible calls the works of the flesh.
When we ask Jesus to be our Lord, His Spirit comes into our lives and a conflict arises between our old nature and one He would build in us.
Why do we destroy the very things we should protect and cherish? It’s not that we want to destroy them, but it’s just in our nature.
The Spirit brings this conflict
Galatians 5:22-25 (ESV)
This living or walking by The Spirit is the hard step, and it must be an intentional step on our part.
The first change that feels unnatural is a change in how we see the world.
Love is a natural affection for others.
We see ourselves and others as having been formed in the very image of God.
The Spirit-led person sees themselves and others as a part of the great mosaic that reveals God in new and wonderful ways.
God makes our natures alike. When our natures are alike we see the differences differently.
The opposite of love is not hate; the opposite of love is selfishness.
Matthew 22:35-40 (ESV)
When God is a concept we wonder about Him.
When God is seen as a reality we try to please Him.
When God is seen as our Savior we open our hearts to Him and He works in us.