What Does it Mean to Live by the Spirit?

Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death. For what the law was powerless to do because it was weakened by the flesh, God did by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh to be a sin offering. And so he condemned sin in the flesh, in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fully met in us, who do not live according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.
Romans 8:1-4

In delving into this passage we discover the profound scope of our salvation through faith in the gospel. We are liberated from the condemnation of sin and released from the burden of striving to meet God’s perfect standard under the Law. Our faith in Christ sets us free from these constraints, compelling us not out of obligation but out of gratitude to live lives that honor God. This freedom invites us to emulate Christ’s character, empowered by the Holy Spirit dwelling within us. However, we confront the reality of our continued struggle with sinful tendencies while aspiring to live in accordance with the Spirit (Romans 8:4). This prompts us to ask, ‘What does it truly mean to live by the Spirit?’ As we explore this question, we will examine the pivotal role of human emotions in shaping our behavior and influencing our journey towards Christlikeness.”

Living According to the Flesh:

Definition: Living according to the flesh means following our sinful nature, which leads to actions and decisions driven by selfish desires and impulses.
Characteristics: It includes behaviors and attitudes such as anger, jealousy, sexual immorality, impurity, idolatry, hatred, discord, and envy.
Consequences: Living according to the flesh leads to spiritual death, separation from God, and a life marked by turmoil and dissatisfaction.

Living According to the Spirit:

Definition: Living according to the Spirit means being led by the Holy Spirit, resulting in actions and decisions that reflect God’s will and character.
Characteristics: It involves exhibiting the fruits of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23).
Consequences: Living according to the Spirit brings life and peace, aligns us with God’s purposes, and transforms our character to be more like Christ.

“The Holy Spirit illuminates the minds of people, makes us yearn for God, and takes spiritual truth and makes it understandable to us.”
Billy Graham

What the New Testament Says About Living by the Spirit

The New Testament provides numerous references and teachings about living according to the Spirit. They revolve around our knowledge of God’s Word which comes from (1) our time spent in the Word, (2) our devotion to prayer, and (3) our obedience. The Holy Spirit is active in each one of those disciplines. Ultimately the choices we make are based on those activities. Here are 25 cross references to review the fact that the Holy Spirit is present and powerful in our lives:

Galatians 5:16: “So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.”
Galatians 5:22-23: “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.”
Ephesians 5:18: “Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit.”
John 14:26: “But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.”
Romans 8:14: “For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God.”
1 Corinthians 2:12: “What we have received is not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, so that we may understand what God has freely given us.”
2 Corinthians 3:17: “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.”
Ephesians 4:30: “And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.”
1 Thessalonians 5:19: “Do not quench the Spirit.”
Acts 1:8: “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
Romans 5:5: “And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.”
Romans 8:9: “You, however, are not in the realm of the flesh but are in the realm of the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God lives in you.”
Romans 8:26: “In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans.”
1 Corinthians 3:16: “Don’t you know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in your midst?”
1 Corinthians 12:7: “Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good.”
Galatians 4:6: “Because you are his sons, God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls out, ‘Abba, Father.'”
Ephesians 1:13: “And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit.”
Ephesians 3:16: “I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being.”
Philippians 2:1-2: “Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind.
1 Thessalonians 1:6: “You became imitators of us and of the Lord, for you welcomed the message in the midst of severe suffering with the joy given by the Holy Spirit.”
2 Thessalonians 2:13: “But we ought always to thank God for you, brothers and sisters loved by the Lord, because God chose you as firstfruits to be saved through the sanctifying work of the Spirit and through belief in the truth.”
Titus 3:5: “He saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit.”
Hebrews 2:4: “God also testified to it by signs, wonders and various miracles, and by gifts of the Holy Spirit distributed according to his will.”
1 Peter 1:2: “Who have been chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through the sanctifying work of the Spirit, to be obedient to Jesus Christ and sprinkled with his blood: Grace and peace be yours in abundance.”
Jude 1:20: “But you, dear friends, by building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit.”

“God never intended for us to navigate through life’s journey on our own. He designed us to walk in the power and guidance of the Holy Spirit.”
Tony Evans

Managing Emotions to Live According to the Spirit

Emotions serve as powerful motivators. They can either derail our progress or catapult us into the realm of Christlikeness. Positive emotions like joy can motivate productivity and creativity, while negative emotions such as guilt or shame may stifle our motivation in our Christian walk. To be effective in our desire to become Christlike, we must manage our emotions and react to life’s highs and lows in a godly way.

Awareness: Recognize and acknowledge the emotion. This helps in understanding its source and impact.
Reflection: Consider how this emotion aligns with or opposes the fruits of the Spirit. Ask yourself how Jesus or the Holy Spirit might respond in this situation.
Prayer: Seek guidance from God. Pray for wisdom, strength, and the ability to respond in a way that reflects the fruits of the Spirit.
Action: Choose actions that align with the fruits of the Spirit.

“You will never be able to live above your circumstances until you have learned to live beyond your feelings.”
Rick Warren

Spectrum of Emotions with Biblical References

Here is a comprehensive list of human emotions with natural reactions contrasted with Spirit-led responses, including examples and relevant Bible verses. Find the ones that you experience the most and use them for good; “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose (Romans 8:28).”

Happiness:

Natural Reaction: Seeking more pleasure.
Spirit-Led Response: Sharing joy and being thankful.
Example: When feeling happy, express gratitude to God and spread joy by encouraging others.
Bible Reference: 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18: “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

Sadness:

Natural Reaction: Withdrawal, hopelessness.
Spirit-Led Response: Seeking comfort in God and the support of others.
Example: When feeling sad, read scriptures that bring hope and reach out to friends or a support group for encouragement.
Bible Reference: Matthew 5:4: “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.”

Fear:

Natural Reaction: Anxiety, avoidance.
Spirit-Led Response: Trusting in God’s protection and provision.
Example: When feeling fearful, remind yourself of God’s promises and take steps forward in faith, seeking peace through prayer.
Bible Reference: 2 Timothy 1:7: “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.”

Anger:

Natural Reaction: Lashing out, holding grudges.
Spirit-Led Response: Practicing patience and forgiveness.
Example: When feeling anger, pause and pray for self-control and peace. Respond to the situation with calm words and actions.
Bible Reference: James 1:19-20: “My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.”

Surprise:

Natural Reaction: Shock, confusion.
Spirit-Led Response: Seeking understanding and wisdom.
Example: When surprised, take a moment to pray for clarity and seek God’s perspective on the situation.
Bible Reference: Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”

Disgust:

Natural Reaction: Revulsion, avoidance.
Spirit-Led Response: Compassion and understanding.
Example: When feeling disgust, try to understand the underlying issues and respond with kindness.
Bible Reference: Jude 1:22: “Be merciful to those who doubt.”

Love:

Natural Reaction: Affection, desire.
Spirit-Led Response: Selfless giving and commitment.
Example: When feeling love, demonstrate it through acts of service and sacrifice, reflecting Christ’s love.
Bible Reference: 1 John 3:18: “Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.”

Jealousy:

Natural Reaction: Envy, resentment.
Spirit-Led Response: Rejoicing in others’ blessings and practicing gratitude.
Example: When feeling jealous, make a list of your own blessings and thank God for them, and express joy for the success of others.
Bible Reference: James 3:16-17: “For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice. But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.”

Envy:

Natural Reaction: Bitterness, comparison.
Spirit-Led Response: Contentment and appreciation.
Example: When feeling envious, focus on your unique path and celebrate others’ achievements without comparison.
Bible Reference: Proverbs 14:30: “A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones.”

Guilt:

Natural Reaction: Shame, self-condemnation.
Spirit-Led Response: Repentance and seeking forgiveness.
Example: When feeling guilty, confess your wrongs to God, seek His forgiveness, and make amends where possible.
Bible Reference: 1 John 1:9: “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”

Shame:

Natural Reaction: Hiding, self-rejection.
Spirit-Led Response: Embracing God’s grace and seeking restoration.
Example: When feeling shame, remember your identity in Christ and seek His healing and acceptance.
Bible Reference: Romans 8:1: “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”

Pride:

Natural Reaction: Arrogance, self-reliance.
Spirit-Led Response: Humility and reliance on God.
Example: When feeling proud, acknowledge God’s role in your achievements and seek ways to serve others humbly.
Bible Reference: Philippians 2:3: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.”

Gratitude:

Natural Reaction: Joy, thankfulness.
Spirit-Led Response: Expressing thanks to God and sharing blessings.
Example: When feeling grateful, praise God and find ways to bless others with what you have.
Bible Reference: Colossians 3:17: “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”

Compassion:

Natural Reaction: Empathy, care.
Spirit-Led Response: Taking action to help and support.
Example: When feeling compassionate, engage in acts of service and support those in need.
Bible Reference: Colossians 3:12: “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.”

Hope:

Natural Reaction: Optimism, expectation.
Spirit-Led Response: Trusting in God’s promises and remaining steadfast.
Example: When feeling hopeful, anchor your hope in God’s word and encourage others to do the same.
Bible Reference: Romans 15:13: “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”

Despair:

Natural Reaction: Hopelessness, giving up.
Spirit-Led Response: Seeking God’s strength and finding solace in His promises.
Example: When feeling despair, turn to scripture for encouragement and pray for God’s intervention.
Bible Reference: Psalm 34:18: “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”

Loneliness:

Natural Reaction: Isolation, sadness.
Spirit-Led Response: Seeking fellowship and community.
Example: When feeling lonely, reach out to friends or join a church group to build connections and find support.
Bible Reference: Hebrews 10:24-25: “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”

Boredom:

Natural Reaction: Restlessness, seeking distraction.
Spirit-Led Response: Finding purpose in God’s work and being productive.
Example: When feeling bored, volunteer for a cause, study the Bible, or engage in activities that build up others.
Bible Reference: 1 Corinthians 15:58: “Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.”

Contentment:

Natural Reaction: Satisfaction, relaxation.
Spirit-Led Response: Gratitude and peace in God’s provision.
Example: When feeling content, thank God for His blessings and maintain a spirit of generosity towards others.
Bible Reference: Philippians 4:11-12: “I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.”

Anxiety:

Natural Reaction: Worry, stress.
Spirit-Led Response: Casting cares on God and seeking His peace.
Example: When feeling anxious, pray and meditate on scriptures that affirm God’s control and care.
Bible Reference: Philippians 4:6-7: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Trust:

Natural Reaction: Confidence, reliance.
Spirit-Led Response: Faithfulness and obedience to God.
Example: When feeling trust, step out in faith in areas God is leading you and encourage others to trust Him as well.
Bible Reference: Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”

Anticipation:

Natural Reaction: Eagerness, excitement.
Spirit-Led Response: Hopeful expectancy in God’s plans.
Example: When feeling anticipation, prepare yourself through prayer and action, aligning your expectations with God’s will.
Bible Reference: Romans 8:24-25: “For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what they already have? But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.”

Relief:

Natural Reaction: Relaxation, release.
Spirit-Led Response: Thankfulness and renewed commitment.
Example: When feeling relieved, thank God for His provision and use the renewed energy to serve Him more effectively.
Bible Reference: Philippians 4:13: “I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”

Curiosity:

Natural Reaction: Seeking knowledge, questioning.
Spirit-Led Response: Seeking wisdom and understanding through God’s word.
Example: When feeling curious, study the Bible and seek godly counsel to satisfy your quest for knowledge.
Bible Reference: James 1:5: “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”

Disappointment:

Natural Reaction: Discouragement, frustration.
Spirit-Led Response: Trusting God’s sovereignty and finding new hope.
Example: When feeling disappointed, remind yourself that God’s plans are higher than yours and look for new opportunities.
Bible Reference: Romans 8:28: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”

Inspiration:

Natural Reaction: Creativity, motivation.
Spirit-Led Response: Using gifts for God’s glory and encouraging others.
Example: When feeling inspired, create or work on projects that honor God and share your inspiration to uplift others.
Bible Reference: 1 Peter 4:10: “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.”

Embarrassment:

Natural Reaction: Shame, hiding.
Spirit-Led Response: Humility and learning.
Example: When feeling embarrassed, take it as a learning experience, remain humble, and seek God’s guidance.
Bible Reference: Proverbs 11:2: “When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.”

Empathy:

Natural Reaction: Sharing in others’ emotions, compassion.
Spirit-Led Response: Supporting and comforting others.
Example: When feeling empathetic, actively listen to others and provide support and encouragement in their times of need.
Bible Reference: Romans 12:15: “Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.”

Frustration:

Natural Reaction: Irritation, impatience.
Spirit-Led Response: Patience and problem-solving.
Example: When feeling frustrated, pray for patience and look for constructive ways to address the issue.
Bible Reference: Colossians 3:12: “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.”

Resentment:

Natural Reaction: Bitterness, grudges.
Spirit-Led Response: Forgiveness and reconciliation.
Example: When feeling resentful, pray for a forgiving heart and take steps toward reconciliation.
Bible Reference: Ephesians 4:31-32: “Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”

“God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in Him. The Spirit’s fruit in our lives testifies to our satisfaction in God.”
John Piper

Biblical Illustrations of Godly Actions Driven by Emotion

One poignant illustration from the life of Christ that demonstrates how emotions lead to actions is found in Mark 6:34-44, where Jesus feeds the 5,000:

In this passage, Jesus had withdrawn with his disciples to a remote place, but a large crowd followed them. Seeing the people, “he had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd” (Mark 6:34). This compassion, this deep emotional response to the needs of the people, led directly to action. Jesus spent the day teaching them many things. As evening approached and the crowd grew hungry, the disciples suggested sending them away to nearby villages to find food. However, Jesus responded with another action prompted by His emotions: He miraculously multiplied five loaves and two fish to feed the entire multitude.

This story illustrates how Jesus’ compassion, a powerful emotion, moved Him to teach and then to perform a miraculous act of provision. It shows that emotions, when aligned with God’s will and character, can lead to compassionate actions that demonstrate God’s love and care for others. Here are some other examples of Christ’s emotions resulting in righteous actions:

Compassion and Healing (Luke 4:40):
- Jesus, moved with compassion for the people, healed their sick. This act of compassion led to miraculous provision and demonstrated Christlike care for physical and spiritual needs.
Love and Service (John 13:1-17):
- Jesus, knowing His hour had come to depart from the world, showed His disciples the full extent of His love by washing their feet. This act of humility and service was driven by His deep love for them, teaching them to serve one another in love.
Anger and Righteous Action (Mark 11:15-17):
- Jesus, upon entering the temple and seeing it being misused for profit, was filled with righteous anger. He drove out the money changers and overturned their tables, cleansing the temple as a place of prayer. His actions were driven by a zeal for the house of God.
Sorrow and Intercession (John 11:33-44):
- Jesus, upon seeing Mary weeping over the death of Lazarus, was deeply moved and troubled in spirit. His sorrow led Him to pray and then raise Lazarus from the dead, demonstrating His power over death and His compassion for those who mourn.
Joy and Witness (Luke 10:21-22):
- Jesus rejoiced in the Holy Spirit when His disciples returned from their ministry, reporting how even demons submitted to them in His name. His joy led Him to praise God and affirm the disciples’ faithfulness in spreading the kingdom message.
Fear and Trust (Matthew 26:36-46):
- Jesus, in the Garden of Gethsemane, was deeply distressed and troubled knowing the suffering He would face. His fear was real, yet He surrendered to God’s will in prayer, saying, “Not my will, but yours be done.” His trust in God’s plan enabled Him to face His crucifixion with courage and obedience.

These illustrations above from the life of Christ show how emotions, when guided by the Holy Spirit and aligned with God’s will, resulted in positive results that stemmed from human emotion. In the same way, we can use our emotions to behave in ways that reflect Christlike character, compassion, service, and obedience. They demonstrate that our emotions, when surrendered to God, can be powerful catalysts for glorifying God and advancing His kingdom on earth. To drive this point home even further, lets review some examples from everyday people showcasing how their emotions led them to Christlike behavior by the power of the Holy Spirit:

Peter’s Compassion and Healing (Acts 3:1-10):
- Filled with compassion, Peter healed a lame man at the temple gate in Jesus’ name, leading to faith and glorifying God.
Paul’s Love and Sacrifice (Philippians 1:3-8):
- Paul expressed deep affection for the Philippians, praying joyfully for them and sacrificially laboring for their spiritual growth.
Stephen’s Forgiveness and Martyrdom (Acts 7:54-60):
- As Stephen faced death, he forgave his persecutors, mirroring Christ’s forgiveness and testifying to his faith.
Barnabas’ Generosity and Encouragement (Acts 4:36-37; Acts 9:26-28):
- Known for his generosity, Barnabas supported the early church financially and encouraged new believers like Saul.
John’s Zeal for Truth and Love (3 John 1:1-4):
- John commended Gaius for his faithfulness to truth and love, encouraging him in his Christian walk.
Peace and Comfort in the Early Church (Acts 9:31):
- The early church experienced peace, growing in numbers and unity, encouraged by the Holy Spirit.
Philip’s Obedience and Evangelism (Acts 8:26-40):
- Prompted by the Spirit, Philip evangelized an Ethiopian eunuch, leading to baptism and conversion.
Lydia’s Hospitality and Faith (Acts 16:13-15):
- Lydia responded in faith to Paul’s message, opening her home and contributing to the church’s growth.
Silas and Paul’s Worship and Deliverance (Acts 16:25-34):
- Paul and Silas worshiped in prison, leading to their deliverance and the conversion of their jailer.
Dorcas’ Compassion and Service (Acts 9:36-42):
- Dorcas’ charitable acts and compassion led to her resurrection, strengthening the faith of many.
Priscilla and Aquila’s Teaching and Encouragement (Acts 18:24-28):
- Priscilla and Aquila instructed Apollos in the ways of God, contributing to his ministry effectiveness.
Timothy’s Faithfulness and Commitment (Philippians 2:19-22):
- Timothy’s dedication to the gospel and care for believers made him a valuable partner in ministry.
James and John’s Transformation in Zeal (Luke 9:51-56):
- Initially zealous for judgment, James and John were transformed into apostles of love and grace by Jesus.
The Bereans’ Diligence and Faith (Acts 17:10-12):
- The Bereans’ diligence in studying Scripture led many to believe in the gospel preached by Paul.
Titus’ Servanthood and Wisdom (2 Corinthians 8:16-17):
- Titus’ wise management of resources for the saints reflected Christ’s love and care for His church.
Onesiphorus’ Loyalty and Encouragement (2 Timothy 1:15-18):
- Onesiphorus’ loyalty and encouragement to Paul during imprisonment demonstrated Christlike compassion.

These examples from the New Testament show how various followers of Jesus, empowered by the Holy Spirit, allowed their emotions—such as faith, compassion, zeal, and love—to drive them toward Christlike behavior, impacting others for the kingdom of God. Their actions reflect the transformative power of the gospel and inspire us to live in obedience and faithfulness to God’s call.

Summary

Living “not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit” (Romans 8:4) contrasts our natural inclinations with a Spirit-led life. The New Testament emphasizes the importance of yielding to the Holy Spirit’s guidance, which transforms our thoughts, emotions, and actions to align with God’s will and character. By nurturing the fruits of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23)—we reflect Christ-likeness in our daily lives. Responding to emotions in a Spirit-led manner involves:

1) Our time spent in the Word
2) Our devotion to prayer
3) Our obedience

In addition to these foundational disciplines, we can utilize the following tools:

Self-awareness and Reflection: Recognizing our emotional triggers and understanding their spiritual implications.
Prayer and Dependence on God: Seeking wisdom and strength through prayer to respond in ways that honor God.
Intentional Action: Choosing actions and words that demonstrate love, grace, and humility, reflecting the character of Christ.
Community and Accountability: Engaging with fellow believers for support, encouragement, and mutual growth in spiritual maturity.

Living according to the Spirit offers freedom from the bondage of sinful tendencies and empowers us to live abundantly in Christ. It involves continual surrender to God’s leading and a willingness to submit our emotions and desires to His transformative power.

“The Holy Spirit takes our emotions and uses them to glorify Christ and to make us more like Him.”
Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones

All Scripture quoted from:
New International Version (NIV)
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