Galatians 5:22-23 – Verse of the Day 7/5/13

 
After providing a stringent critique of reliance upon the Law for salvation in the first half of Galatians, Paul winds down the letter with a more positive description of what true Christian life looks like. This famous verse about the fruits of the spirit lies in the midst of a long description of the power of the Holy Spirit in the life of the Christian. While it is deathly dangerous for us to look upon our own personal righteousness as a means to salvation, that does not prevent us from pursuing righteousness as a result of our new life in Christ and by reliance upon the Holy Spirit.

Spend some time praying through each of the characteristics listed in this verse. As you pray, allow each word to make you aware of your sin and how you fall short in this area. As you do so, remember that Jesus’ life and death on the cross have set us free from our sins. As you rejoice in that reality, pray that God would help you to grow in each of these areas by the power of His Holy Spirit.