5:16 But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. (2001). (Ga 5:16). Wheaton: Standard Bible Society.
In modern day computer programming, it is common to utilize an “if, then” method. Simply stated if one enters this data, then this outcome is provided. In nearly every aspect of life, we understand the “if, then” principle. If one eats too much, then they gain weight. If one spends more money than they make, then they go into debt. On a more critically important level, Paul offers a major “if, then” concept in Galatians 5:16. “If we walk by the Spirit, we will not gratify the desires of the flesh”
Unfortunately, many believers ignore this advice. In order to avoid feeding the fleshly desires, most feel that conferences, self-help books, podcasts, or counseling are required. According to Galatians 5:16, it simply requires us to “walk by the Spirit”.
So what does it mean to “walk by the Spirit”? The verb, “walk”, is an imperative written in the present tense. Often Paul will use the imagery of walking to describe the Christian life, or daily conduct of a believer. In its broader sense, “to walk”, implies to walk around after someone or to walk in a particular direction. Imagine the disciples who walked with Jesus. They followed Him, wherever He went. George wrote, “In Paul’s vocabulary, to walk in the Spirit or be led by the Spirit means to go where the Spirit is going, to listen to his voice, to discern his will, to follow his guidance.” George, T. (1994). Galatians (Vol. 30, p. 386). Nashville: Broadman & Holman Publishers.
It could simply be interpreted to “walk after” the Spirit. This verb tense understanding allows for accurate application to present day life. As we go throughout our day, and our life, we should seek to recongize the leading of the Holy Spirit in each moment and follow His lead.
I am not suggesting that conferences, self-help books, podcasts, and counseling are not beneficial. In fact if the Spirit leads us to those things, then they become tools that He uses in our path. It becomes a matter of perspective. Are we dependent upon God the Spirit, or are we dependent upon our own strategic means?
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