Live by the spirit

By Rev Dr Rick Dacey

The Rev Dr Rick Dacey explores the work of the Holy Spirit in the early church, which flourished despite persecution, and became known for its compassion and love. As we read Paul’s appeal to the Galatians to live out their freedom in Christ rather than being bound by new rules made up by a religious faction, we consider what it means for us to have freedom in the Spirit. We learn that we were freed from sin, which is breaking relationship with God and his children, in order that we will live a life of faith in restored relationship with God and his people, allowing God’s love, hope and compassion to flow in and through us. As we abide in God’s love, we will naturally produce the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. We will do all this as we live, walk and are guided by the Spirit.