There was this person who was always involved in church activities and had a keen interest in
theological topics. He was very mindful of himself and others, readily calling out someone who was
falling behind. Unfortunately, one lie of his exposed caused him not to return to church. His pride was
hurt, and he began speaking against the church. The elders tried to reach out to restore him, but he
never returned.
This is the same critical spirit that the apostle Paul addressed in Galatia. Many became absorbed in their
activities, equating them to spiritual maturity while being deceived. Paul said in Galatians 5:17 “For the
flesh has desires that are opposed to the Spirit, and the Spirit has desires that are opposed to the flesh,
for these are in opposition to each other, so that you cannot do what you want.”
This differentiates a truly pledged follower of Christ from a deceived professor. Desires will always be
revealed. The flesh wants to feel good by hearing wonderful things and wanting wonderful things. This
was displayed in the garden when Satan tempted Adam and Eve, suggesting they could have more than
what God has already given them. On the other hand, the Spirit’s desire is to honor God. Someone led
by the Spirit serves others to honor God, not themselves.
Honestly, it’s difficult to be consistent in this. But it is a great reminder that those who are in Christ are
no longer dictated to and cursed by the law. In verse 18, Paul said, “But if you are led by the Spirit, you
are not under the law.” The usage of “led” is in the present tense and active voice which Paul meant that
the Spirit is active and His work is ongoing. So, while the struggle between flesh and Spirit continuous,
the Spirit does not stop working in you. He reminds and leads you to remember that you are not who
you were before–unregenerated and unsaved–but changed and saved in Christ.
What does this have to do with last week’s article regarding true freedom? It is this: true freedom is not
a license to do anything you desire but to freely choose to glorify God. This was not possible before, but
it is now the evidence of being truly free from enslavement to sin and being under the Spirit’s
leadership.
We may often scrutinize others with their lives, but we must remind ourselves that they need the same
grace and understanding as we do every day. There is no need to be arrogant; instead, recognize we rely
solely on God. And if we fail, always return to your need of the Spirit’s ongoing work. Only then can we
endure. Take advantage of the freedom you have in the Spirit, not as a license to sin and ridicule others,
but as a genuine privilege to live for the glory of the Lord.
