Monday, January 26, 2015

Keep in Step with the Spirit


"If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit."  Galatians 5:25

As Christians, we are called to walk with the Spirit.  What does this mean?  The Greek origin helps me visualize the meaning of this scripture:  stoicheo' -walk in cadence, to keep in step*

When I was in high school I played flute in the marching band.  In preparation for a parade or a half-time performance at a football game, we had to learn how to "keep in step".  What was the beat?  What direction to turn and when?  Yes, we had to keep in step, as lead by our Drum Major's design.  How did we learn to do this (and play music at the same time)?
  • We listened to the Drum Majors instruction
  • We practiced marching in step
  • We learned new skills (turns, scatters, pivots)
  • We practiced more
  • We built on learned steps to walk in new formations
When we are seeking to "keep in step" with the Spirit, the marching band list might be applied:

Listen
          -Read His word, What is He saying to you?
          -talk to fellow believers
          -Pray for direction and listen

Practice (real-life practice)
           -His word and leading steps
           -the direction you are being called to

Learn New Skills/Insights
          -Continue to learn from God and His word
          -Find Christian resources that are helpful
          -continue to discuss with fellow believers

Practice More (real-life practice)
          -each day ask God to lead you with HIS spirit
          -share the work God is doing in you, with trusted friends/coworkers
          -share your challenges in "keeping in step with the Spirit", with trusted friends/coworkers

Build on what you've already learned
          -ask the Holy Spirit to stretch and use what He's been teaching you

Walk in New Formations
           -continue to listen, practice/apply, learn new skills/insights, build on God's work in you

What helps you "keep in step" with the Spirit?
What new steps is God teaching you (or renewed steps?)?  New formations?
What do you want to do next to "walk in step with the Spirit"?


"And I am convinced and sure of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will continue until the day of Jesus Christ, developing [that good work], and perfecting and bringing it to full completion in you." Philippians 1:6

*Helps Word Studies, as found on the internet





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