Thoughts

1 Corinthians Reflections…

Posted on August 1, 2009

Lately my Bible reading has taken me to 1 Corinthians. It seems like it’s been just the right group of Scriptures for where I am. Isn’t it amazing how God does that? What has struck me so far is the sheer simplicity of Paul’s words.

When I read the powerful words of our bodies being the temple of the Holy Spirit, my mind immediately went to the fruits of the spirit. My prayer this week has been that my life would display the fruits of the spirit. I love The Message version of Galatians 5:22 & 23.

“But 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.

Legalism is helpless in bringing this about; it only gets in the way. Among those who belong to Christ, everything connected with getting our own way and mindlessly responding to what everyone else calls necessities is killed off for good—crucified.”

My mind is blown away that God trusts us to be the temple of the Holy Spirit. It’s like He puts His reputation in our hands, and He’s not even insecure about it! I don’t take this lightly…being the temple of the Holy Spirit. Nor does it move me to a state of unhealthy fear, but rather it transforms the way I carry myself. And I think that’s just what Jesus goes for…TRANSFORMATION! Come be transformed with me today!