16 So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. 17 For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want. 18 But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law.

19 The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; 20 idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions 21 and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.

22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control.

Galatians 5:16-23

Questions for Reflection:

When you look at the "acts of the flesh" list which one or two on the list are you more vulnerable to manifesting in your life?

When you look at the "fruit of the Spirit" list, which one or two fruits are more maturely represented in your life? Which one or two would you love to grow and ripen in your life?

How does it feel knowing that more "love, joy, peace etc." in our lives is a result of a growing connection with the Holy Spirit and not just trying harder?

Prayer of the Week:

Father in Heaven thank you for loving me so much that You gave Your Son Jesus to die for me and rise again. Thank you for the wonderful provision you give me each and every day which sustains me physically, financially, emotionally and spiritually. I praise You! I do not want any of Your blessings in my life to go unnoticed or un-received. I pray the eyes of my heart see all Your goodness to me.

Jesus I receive You as my New Life my holiness and my strength. You are victorious over sin, death and the devil and I claim Your victory as my victory this day. I praise you that through Your cross and empty tomb You made it possible for the Holy Spirit to come and take up residence in me. I receive Your Spirit Jesus to live in me forever.

Holy Spirit, I love You I worship You, I trust You, I yield every dimension of my spirit, soul and body, heart, mind and will to You and You alone to be filled with You, to walk in step with You in all things. Spirit I receive You now as my counselor, comforter my strength and my guide – I honor You as my sovereign leader and ask You to pilot my mind through all that is in store for me today. Fill me afresh Holy Spirit, restore my union with the Father and the Son throughout the moments of this day, lead me in all truth, anoint me for my life and walk and calling. Lead me deeper into Jesus today.

Father, Son, Holy Spirit I will declare Your praises today as I live the meaningful life You so graciously intend for me to live. Amen