1st July 2023

Walk in the Spirit

One of my favorite things to do since we moved from the “wilds” of southern California to a forest area in Oregon is to walk in the woods. Before I go, I put on the proper clothing – long pants to protect my legs, a hat and of course, the proper socks and shoes. My robe and slippers just won’t do. Without the right clothes, the walk wouldn’t be as enjoyable and I might get blisters. Going out to face the challenges of each day without putting on Jesus could invite consequences much worse than blisters or scratches. 

The second side of the golden triangle of putting on Jesus is interaction with the Holy Spirit. He is the one who makes Christ present to us and draws us into his likeness. “The presence of the Holy Spirit can always be recognized by the way He moves us toward what Jesus would be and do (John 16:7-15). When we inwardly experience the heavenly sweetness and power of life – the love, joy and peace – that Jesus knew, that is the work of the Spirit in us” (The Great Omission, Dallas Willard).

We can and should expect the Holy Spirit to work in us and in the lives of those around us. He is the “all-powerful, creative personality, the promised ‘strengthener,’ the Paraclete of John 14, [who] gently awaits our invitation to him to act upon us, with us, and for us.” And one more from Dallas Willard: “What brings about our transformation into Christ-likeness is our direct, personal interaction with Christ through the Spirit.” 

Our comforter and guide – the one who keeps us pointed in the right direction, toward Jesus – is intimately involved in everything we do and everywhere we go. Let’s keep in step with him, walk with him and never leave home without putting on Jesus.

Study by Tammy Tkach

 First published on 6 June 2023, at www.gemsofgodsgrace.wordpress.com

About the writer:
Tammy Tkach is the Assistant Pastor of the Eugene, Oregon, USA congregation. She is a speaker and writer, and publishes a blog at www.gemsofgodsgrace.wordpress.com  

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