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Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit’s leading in every part of our lives. Galatians 5:25 NLT
I am a Gemini. My birthday is June 10th, pretty much right in the middle of the window which may explain a lot if you have ever interacted with me. Now, long story short, Gemini’s are tagged as having dual personalities. I like to think of the Gemini as being adaptable, having the ability to see both sides of a situation, make the most of any opportunity and basically being multifaceted. I will admit there could be a little moodiness involved though. Hot one minute, cold the next. Social in some situations, shy in others. Sometimes direct and decisive, other times indifferent and indecisive. So many conversations to be had about the zodiac in general but my point in bringing this up is that I do have some internal battles, some things I go back and forth with myself on, whether driven by being born in June or more generally a result of my upbringing and environment.
For the most part, I know the right things to do, however sometimes I just don’t (or can’t) do them. For example, I know that I could be a little nicer, more tolerant or personable. I even give myself pep talks when I know I will be dealing with difficult folks in difficult situations. But just as you would guess, something triggers my attitude to kick in and nice goes out the window. I know that I could spend more time in personal devotions and Bible time, but as you would guess, something comes up during the time I set aside to study. I also want to forgive and let go when I feel betrayed and disappointed, but as you would guess, the situation plays over and over in mind, not allowing me to move forward.
Like many of us, I could go on and on about things I should and want to improve. Some of us want to love more, some want to give more, some want to be better with hard conversations, some want to be more discipline. Some of us want to let go of toxic people and environments. But we can’t!
We want to be great but life gets hard! Continuing to throw us curve balls and derailing our plans. The good news is, we do not have to go through life and deal with these struggles alone. Whatever best laid plans and intentions we have, we should realize that there is resource available to help us!
Throughout the books of the New Testament, especially Romans and Galatians, Paul provides an explanation for some of these internal struggles we have. He informs us that no matter what we want to do, there is a spirit, a principle, a rule that basically forces us to do wrong (Rom 7:21). Like the Gemini feeling I get, Paul explains that two forces, a sinful nature and the Holy Spirit, are constantly fighting each other, so we are not free to carry out our good intentions. (Gal 5:17). The key text above helps us realize that the only way to combat these dueling forces is to allow the Holy Spirit to guide us (the resource). The entire chapter actually encourages us to be free from the bondage of sinful nature, not indulging in the flesh but working hard to display the fruit of the Spirit. It's a really good read, a little convicting but good for us.
As we think about self-improvement, living our best and most healthy lives, let us pray that God’s vision be made plain. Let us be honest about our weaknesses and struggles. Let us allow the Holy Spirit to guide us, relying on the resources and gifts that God has given us to move in the right direction
When we struggle with making the right decisions or moving in the right direction, take a time out. Stop in the moment and pray for guidance and strength from the Holy Spirit.
As we struggle with forgiveness and acceptance, remember that God has granted us mercy and grace. Pray for the ability to extend the same by the power of the Holy Spirit.
As we strive to display the Fruit of the Spirit, pray that the words of our mouth and meditations of the heart be directed by the Holy Spirit.
Not only must we pray, we actually have to want to be better. We love the scripture "faith without works is dead" so let's apply it!
Remember: God sent us Jesus. Jesus left us with the Holy Spirit. With His Spirit, we have a Power inside of us. A Power to overcome sin and weakness. A Power to move forward and be better. A Power to conquer any struggles we may face. Let's trust the Power! Have faith and take time to really listen for God's will. Be free!
Live outside the box. Live in purpose. Live on purpose.
Peace. Blessings. Love.
Lady Z
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