Romans 8:12-14

“for if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live.” vs. 13 

There is more to our life in the world than meets the eye. We may think that we have free agency in our words and actions, and that our hearts, minds, and spirits are in charge, but that’s not even close to the truth. As any active participant in a 12 step program is quick to confess, we are not in control, and that if we really want to live, we need to surrender ourselves to a higher power. Paul describes that higher power as the Holy Spirit and tells the Romans that without the Spirit they will die. Now some might think that because they are not addicts, they don’t need a higher power. And while that might seem logical, it’s not even close to the truth. We may not be dependent on alcohol or some other drug, but most all will admit that they are addicted to sin. No matter how good we think we are, all of us regularly are victimized by our own sinful behaviors. It’s only as we tap into the always present power of the Spirit that we can produce the love, joy, peace, and patience that are the unique fruits of the Spirit, and the desire of every human heart. We’re free to go it on our own in this world, but what blessings we receive when we finally learn to “let go and let God!”

Thought for the Day: When are my addictions most apparent?