"Those who belong to Jesus Christ have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires." (Galatians 5:24)
As we continue our reflections on this past Sunday's sermon, let's think about Pastor Joy's comment (paraphrased here): "It's not that the customer sees you as the best choice; the customer sees you as the only choice."
Oh, for us Jesus is the only choice! And because we belong to Him, that means there are other things that we don't want to be a part of. Galatians 5:24 sums it up: we don't want to be controlled by the sinful nature. In fact, we have put the sinful nature to death.
But how do we put the sinful nature to death? By cultivating the fruit of the Spirit, those character traits that define and "brand" the Christian. What are they?
Love. Joy. Peace. Patience. Kindness. Goodness. Faithfulness. Gentleness. Self-control.
What a list. No disclaimers, no "I love everybody except for those people who keep bothering me", no "but you don't understand my situation". Just beautiful fruit, the love of our Father God reflected in and through His children.
Yes, Lord, we want to look like You! We want to present You in such a way that people will see You as their only option. Please let Your transforming work be done in us. In Jesus's name we pray, Amen.
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