Yesterday, Paul shared his frustrations with living in the flesh (sinful nature). In this passage, he says that even when he feels incapable of doing what is right, he does not lose hope because there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ. This is because, those who are in Christ have received the Holy Spirit, who is the same Spirit that rose Jesus from the dead. Now that this Spirit dwells within me, I have the power to actually walk in a manner that is worthy of God.
So let's break it down. We all encounter problems in our lives and right now it might be that you are struggling with exams, paying bills on time, or living a joy-filled life, so the question then is what is our response? Many times we result in complaining, coveting, or venting to others about 'how hard our life is' but do we need to? The simple answer is no but is there a better reason. From today's passage, we are reminded of the hope we are given from God. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we can persevere, trust for provisions, obey His commands, and have a thankful heart every single day, no matter what the circumstances are. Through the Spirit, I have the ability to obey everything that God has called me to do. Paul continues to emphasize that walking in righteousness does not mean trying to live by 'rules and regulations'. Although these are important, the law does not give me the ability to actually walk in righteousness. My ability to obey and walk rightly with God is only the response to the transforming work of the Spirit in me.
What are you struggling with right now? Can you persevere, trust, obey, and be thankful with what God is doing in your life? Or is your problem too big for God?
-Bernadette Cabrera
Photo by Greg Rakozy on Unsplash