This year, I am starting a journey, an expedition of sorts to learn to live in such a way to bear fruit. One thing I've realized as I've studied Scripture over the past several days is that I've grown up in a Christian culture that has promoted good fruit. What a shame! Okay, okay, I may have hit some nerves there...Here's the problem, the "fruit" has been so emphasized ("We need to learn to love, to serve, to be patient, to be kind and good, to be faithful and self-controlled") that the walk with Christ, the power of the Cross, the presence of the Spirit and the Glory of God has been lost.
Paul wrote to the Galatians in Chapter 5 that they had been given complete freedom in Christ. Vs. 1 - It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. Unfortunately, some men had come into town and told the Galatians that they needed to follow certain regulations, customs, and traditions in order to be "Christians." Paul responded to this by saying: You who are trying to be justified by law have been alienated from Christ; you have fallen away from grace. (vs. 4)
I realized that I have spent many years seeking the fruit of the spirit, studying, applying, memorizing, striving, etc. My life has been filled by stress....trying to attain to a standard that I was never empowered to meet in and of myself. But we have been given the gift of the Holy Spirit; I have been entrusted with everything I need for life and godliness. We have the mind of Christ. (1 Cor. 2:16b)
Paul finishes out chapter 5 of Galatians by telling them how their lives can be fruitful: by walking with the Spirit, keeping in step with the Spirit. Then their lives will bear the fruit: Fruit that will last.
This is possible for my life too! How exciting!
This blog will hold many things over the coming months. I'd like to see growth in my life in multiple ways.
1) In my walk with Christ - learning about walking daily in step with His Spirit
2) In my relationships with my husband and kids - praying for them and investing in them
3) In my physical fitness as I attempt to keep the "temple" of the Holy Spirit in top shape
4) In my management of my household as I try new recipes, organizational tricks, and prioritization skills
5) In my photography techniques as I undertake a 365 photo challenge
So you'll see a lot here. I hope to achieve a level of accountability as I write and share. I'd also like to be an encouragement to you.
Blessings on your new Year! Talk to you tomorrow.... : ) Happy travels!
