[Faith-talk] Fwd: Morning Thoughts for Wednesday, May 11, 2011

[Amy Ragain]

Begin forwarded message:

> From: Stephen Smith <stevesmith1943 at me.com>
> Date: May 11, 2011 6:51:54 AM CDT
> To: Morning Thoughts 1 <stevesmith1943 at me.com>
> Subject: Morning Thoughts for Wednesday, May 11, 2011
> 
> Galatians 5:13-25 (NASB)
> [13]  For you were called to freedom, brethren; only do not turn your freedom into an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. [14] For the whole Law is fulfilled in one word, in the statement, “YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.” [15] But if you bite and devour one another, take care that you are not consumed by one another.
> [16]  But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh. [17] For the flesh sets its desire against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are in opposition to one another, so that you may not do the things that you please. [18] But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the Law. [19] Now the deeds of the flesh are evident, which are: immorality, impurity, sensuality, [20] idolatry, sorcery, enmities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, disputes, dissensions, factions, [21] 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. [22] But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, [23] gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. [24] Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.
> [25]  If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit.
> 
> Good morning precious family!!  When you post photos of your fond experiences, I am filled with joy for you.  When you testify to the truth of God's Word, I am built up in faith.  When you share the humorous comments of your children or loved ones, I laugh.  Though we may be miles apart, or consumed with conflicting schedules, when you take the time to share, however briefly, you positively impact the lives of countless friends, acquaintances, and even strangers.  More than one of those strangers has probably begun a closer walk with Jesus because of something you said, did, or in some other way, expressed.  I remember well, watching a young lady, a stranger, a visitor from another land, worship the Lord with such power and enthusiasm that I knew at that moment the Holy Spirit had complete control over her life.  The Holy Spirit, then took charge of my life, and worshiping became an act of communion.  That memory has not faded during the past two years.
> 
> As we allow the Holy Spirit to fill us with His presence and love, the temptations of this world fade.  As we walk away from Him, those same lusts and pride return.  Pretty simple.  It's not about euphoria, it's about living the Joy that resides within each of us who have claimed Jesus Christ as our personal Lord and Savior.
> 
> Enjoy a most blessed day as you touch someone with your love for Jesus!
> 
> <3Steve:-))
> 
>