Spirit-Filled Life

Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit’s leading in every part of our lives. – Galatians 5:25

The Holy Spirit plays a vital part in the life of a follower of Jesus Christ. As we grow in our faith, the Holy Spirit heals us, teaches us, leads us to a better understanding of scripture, and intercedes for us in prayer. The Holy Spirit is a gift and a powerful force in our lives. What does this have to do with anger?

In Galatians 5, the apostle Paul talks about how living a spirit-filled life will transform our thoughts and actions. In verse 20, Paul lists “outbursts of anger” as an example of living by the sinful nature. In contrast, when we are letting the Holy Spirit guide us, we are sensitive to his prompting toward godly responses. There is less room for our old nature and more evidence of the new life in us.

Think about it this way: If you are having outbursts of anger, does that resemble Jesus or you? If you are able to control your temper, does that resemble Jesus or you? The godly changes in your life, including self-control, are the fruit of the spirit working in you. As you seek the Lord through the word, through prayer, and through connecting with other believers, your life will reflect less of our old, sinful nature and more of the new nature Christ has given you. It really is an amazing gift!

Take a few moments today and read the fifth chapter of Galatians. When you look at the lists of behaviors and attitudes, take a personal inventory. Which of these describe your life more accurately? Ask the Lord to reveal where you need to change. Invite the Holy Spirit to work in your life and experience the freedom Christ died for you to have!

The first secret to loving others is to immerse yourself in a love relationship with God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit— and abide there. – Anne Graham Lotz

The Holy Spirit wants to convert the words of Scripture into transformed personalities. – David Jeremiah

The Holy Spirit gives liberty to the Christian, direction to the worker, discernment to the teacher, power to the Word, and fruit to faithful service. He reveals the things of Christ. – Billy Graham

TODAY’S PRAYER
Lord Jesus, thank you for the precious gift of your Holy Spirit! I pray for this power to move in me and transform my life to your likeness. May the fruit of the Spirit be evident in my life. I want to live in the freedom you have given me. Amen.

Taken from 100 Days to Freedom from Anger copyright © 2021 by Stephen Arterburn and Becky Brown. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. All rights reserved.