Christian Photographers Community

The Believer’s Struggle

GALATIANS 5:13-16

Many people think that life will be clear sailing after they get saved. Instead, they frequently find they seem to have even more struggles than before.

We should not be dismayed, however; this is the normal Christian life. Before we met the Savior, we were drifting downstream, but upon our salvation, we commenced a journey that would take us through rough waters and wild currents.

In the epistle to the Galatians, the apostle Paul warned us not to use our newfound freedom in Christ as an excuse to revertâ€"instead of drifting back downstream, we must take the yoke of Jesus and learn to walk in the Spirit.

Paul specifically says "walk" (v. 16) because the Christian life has direction. We are climbing new heights toward a specific goal, and climbing means struggling.

Every day, we grapple with jealousy, lust, and pride because we live in a world filled with such things. At the same time, we can learn to walk by the Spirit and rise above our temptations and enemies.

Yes, it is tough to be in a perpetual fight, and many people have no stomach for such constant exertion. When they see the high standard of Jesus' example, they sometimes drop out of the contest and settle for doing the best they can in their own strength.

But doing the best we can is exactly what Paul says will not workâ€"it simply isn't good enough.

That's why the Holy Spirit came. By fully submitting to Him, we can learn to let the Spirit of God do the best He can.

Then we will walk in victory.

Thanks Joyce.

This fits in well with our Bible Study.  J. Johns' 10 Plus. Group study of the Ten Commandments.

Yes we must "walk"...that is hard for someone who always used to rush about.  How easily we can run ahead too far.We do need to wait upon the lord for His Spirit's guiding.

Well said Joyce!