Re:Verse passage – 2 Samuel 20 (day seven)
Galatians 5 provides a good standard of measurement: immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, disputes, dissensions, factions, envying, drunkenness, carousing, and things like these, of which I forewarn you, just as I have forewarned you, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control;against such things there is no law. (Gal 5:19-23)
This week we see more of that first list in Joab: stabbing an unsuspecting man in the belly (v.10), wreaking destruction in Abel Beth-maacah (v.15, 19) while we see more of the second list in the woman of Abel Beth-maacah: wise (v.16, 22), peaceable and faithful (v.19).
If you find yourself entertaining any of those on the first list your flesh is stealing you away from God, but when you find those characteristics listed second appearing in your life the Spirit is molding you into something holy. May we be filled with the Holy Spirit bearing abundant fruit to bless all those around us.
Good reminder of two types of human behaviors.
List 1: Behaviors guided by the flesh are immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, disputes, dissensions, factions, envying, drunkenness, carousing.
List 2: Behaviors guided by the fruit of the Spirit are love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
I cannot imagine how stressful and unhealthy it will be for individuals and the world as a whole if List 1 is the standard of human conduct on a daily basis. May we receive the fruit of the Spirit and use List 2 as a guide in conducting our lives on a daily basis.
It is always good to examine our behaviors on a daily basis as our behaviors will affect for better or for worse to those in our immediate surroundings the most. I am sure everyone will agree that List 2 will lead to a healthy life style and List 1 will lead to unhealthy and ongoing human conflicts. God gives us the choice and the choice we make will make who we are!
May you be blessed and be a blessing to someone.