| Series | Searching for Shalom (1) |
|---|---|
| Theme | Searching for Shalom (1) - SA’ILIGA O LE FILEMU (1) |
| Colour | Lanu Mūmū |
Scripture Focus: Roma 8:5-11
For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you.
- Romans 8:5-11 (KJV)
Study:
This passage from Romans highlights the profound difference between living according to the flesh and living according to the Spirit. Paul contrasts the two mindsets: those who follow their sinful nature end in death, spiritually separated from God, while those who follow the Spirit experience life and peace. The fleshly mind opposes God’s law and cannot please Him, but those in whom the Spirit dwells receive a new life. This new life is empowered by the Spirit who raised Jesus from the dead, promising spiritual renewal and eventual bodily resurrection. The key to peace is the presence of God’s Spirit within believers, transforming their inner being and restoring harmony with God.
Application:
Today, we too face the choice between living by the flesh or by the Spirit. When we focus on worldly desires, stress, and selfish ambitions, we find unrest and spiritual death. However, inviting the Holy Spirit to guide our thoughts and actions brings true peace, even amidst life’s struggles. Trusting in the Spirit’s power helps us overcome sinful tendencies, grants us righteousness, and assures us of eternal life. By daily surrendering to the Spirit, we align ourselves with God’s purposes and experience His peace that surpasses all understanding.
Reflection Questions:
- In what ways am I currently living according to the flesh rather than the Spirit?
- How can I become more aware of the Holy Spirit’s presence in my daily life?
- What areas of my heart need renewing by the Spirit to experience true peace?
- How does knowing that the Spirit who raised Jesus lives in me change my perspective on challenges?
Prayer:
Father God, thank You for sending Your Spirit to dwell within us. Help us to turn away from fleshly desires and to live guided by Your Spirit. Fill us with peace, life, and righteousness. Strengthen our faith in Your power to renew us daily and prepare us for eternal life. May Your Spirit lead us always in Your truth. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Tags: Holy Spirit, peace through the Spirit, Romans 8:5-11, spiritual life, Christian living, righteousness, Bible study, daily devotion, faith, Shalom