What Happens when we live God's Way?

Scripture: Galatians 5: 22-23But what happens when we live God's way? He brings gifts into our lives, much the same way that fruit appears in an orchard—things like affection for others, exuberance about life, serenity. We develop a willingness to stick with things, a sense of compassion in the heart, and a conviction that a basic holiness permeates things and people. We find ourselves involved in loyal commitments, not needing to force our way in life, able to marshal and direct our energies wisely.

Observation: Paul was writing this letter in an explanation of the faith to the church of Galatia. He was using these chapter to talk abou their individual lives and how to live in the faith. So many people today have a distorted view of what it means to live in faith. I have even known some people who believe if they go to church every Sunday, they are faithful people and yet the rest of the week is not taken into account. Paul goes on to talk about the freedom that is found in our faith. Not a freedom to do whatever we want to do, but a freedom from those things that keep distance between us and God. We are free from the sins of the world and they don't have control over us.

Application: The greatest gift that God gives us when we live God's way is true life itself. As we begin to follow the ways of God life explodes with affection for others and and excitement about life. Life truly is good even in the worst of times. Following God does not mean that there is not going to be tough times and that everything is going to be perfect from here own out, but it means that we are not alone and we will be given grace to help us through any situation. We become different people than we are today. We become someone who focuses on others more than ourselves. We become selfless instead of selfish. Its the most wonderful feeling in life. Try it, you'll like it.

Prayer; Most gracious God, you have changed my life in so many ways. Where I once was wandering aimlessly and living life solely for myself, you gave me direction and meaning. The things that I once thought were so important have lost their control on my life. I have found freedom and it is wonderful. I thank you for your love and grace and I thank you for your son who made all this possible, Jesus. It is in his name I pray...Amen