Read

Read Galatians 5:19-26

The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions 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.

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.

Reflect

Not all passions are good and pleasing to God. They can also be a part of our sinful nature. Notice the passionate nature of the sinful behaviors that Paul lists in at the beginning of this passage. Ask yourself if there is a passion in you to live out the fruit of the Spirit that he lists later.

Respond

As you slowly read through the list of sinful behaviors, ask God to forgive you for those that have been a part of your life. Ask him to give you a renewed passion to live a life that bears the fruit of the Spirit instead.