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“If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.” – Galatians 5:25 The Christian life is not merely a matter of believing or belonging—it is about becoming. The apostle Paul calls every believer to “walk in the Spirit,” not fulfilling the desires of the flesh but producing the fruit that only the Spirit can yield. At the center of this walk is love —the kind that reflects the very character of God. The Battle Within Paul paints a vivid contrast in Galatians 5:13–25: between those who walk according to the flesh and those who walk by the Spirit. The works of the flesh—adultery, idolatry, hatred, strife, envy, and more—are symptoms of a life dominated by self. In contrast, the fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith, meekness, and self-control—are signs of a life yielded to God. To walk in the Spirit is to daily submit our will to God. It means living under the influence of His Word, empowered by His presence, and shaped by His mission. The more we submit to the Spirit, the more His fruit is produced in us. The Centrality of Love Among the fruit of the Spirit, Paul begins with love—and for good reason. Love is not merely one of many virtues; it is the soil from which all other fruits grow. In 1 Corinthians 13, Paul describes love as essential, visible, and eternal. Love is Essential : We may have knowledge, spiritual gifts, or even perform great acts of generosity or sacrifice—but without love, it amounts to nothing (1 Cor. 13:1–3). True Christian living is rooted in love, not pride, prestige, or performance. Love is Visible : Christian love is more than a feeling. It is patient, kind, humble, selfless, and enduring (1 Cor. 13:4–7). These traits don’t come naturally—they are cultivated through prayer, practice, and perseverance, especially through trials. Love is Eternal : Prophecy, tongues, and knowledge will all pass away. Even faith and hope will reach their fulfillment in heaven. But love will remain (1 Cor. 13:8–13). In heaven, there will be no more believing or hoping—only perfect love experienced and shared. Why Love Is the Greatest Paul elevates love above even faith and hope for several reasons: Love Is Eternal : In heaven, faith becomes sight and hope is realized. But love continues—perfect and unending. God Is Love : As 1 John 4:8 declares, love is not just something God does—it is who He is. To walk in love is to reflect the very nature of our Creator. Love Is the Power of Life : God’s love saves us, sustains us, and draws others to Christ. “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another” (John 13:35). Walking by the Spirit The Spirit begins His work in us when we believe the gospel and obey it. From there, He leads us daily to crucify the flesh, renew our hearts, and conform us to the image of Christ. As we submit to His word, His will, and His way, the fruit of love begins to grow and mature. Walking in the Spirit is not a mystical experience—it is a daily decision to live by faith, obey the Word, and reflect the love of God. This love isn’t sentimental or self-serving. It is the kind of love that suffers long, rejoices in truth, bears all things, and never fails. Let us walk in the Spirit—and let love lead the way.

“If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.” – Galatians 5:25 As believers, we are called to a life that reflects the character and will of God—not merely in belief, but in action. The apostle Paul, writing to the Galatians, reminds the church that freedom in Christ is not a license to serve the flesh, but a call to love, service, and spiritual transformation. The Christian life is not about adhering to man-made rituals or regulations—it’s about walking in the Spirit. So, what does it really mean to walk in the Spirit? 1. Submit to the Word of the Spirit The Holy Spirit does not guide us through mystical feelings or vague impulses but through the inspired Word of God. According to 2 Peter 1:21, the Scriptures came not by the will of man, but by the Spirit moving holy men to speak. Submitting to the Spirit begins by submitting to the Word He delivered. This submission includes: Reading the Word regularly  (Acts 17:11): Like the noble Bereans, we must search the Scriptures daily. Meditating on God's Word  (Psalm 119:148): In quiet moments, instead of dwelling on our anxieties, we should reflect on God's truth. Receiving instruction from the Word  (Acts 2:42): Learning through teaching, fellowship, and worship strengthens our walk. Most importantly, we must do what the Word says  (Matthew 7:21). It is not enough to know God’s will—we must obey it. 2. Submit to the Power of the Spirit Scripture shows the unique roles of the Godhead: the Father establishes, the Son embodies, and the Holy Spirit enables. While the Father wills and the Son accomplishes, it is the Spirit who moves and empowers. The Spirit enables: Creation  (Genesis 1:2): He hovered over the waters, bringing order from chaos. Revelation  (1 Corinthians 12:4): He bestowed gifts and inspired prophets. Resurrection and transformation  (Romans 8:11): He raised Jesus from the dead and gives life to believers. Even today, the Spirit works providentially. He may open or close doors (Acts 16:7) according to God’s redemptive plan. As Christians, we must discern the Spirit’s direction—whether an opportunity draws us closer to Christ or leads us into worldliness. 3. Submit to the Discipline of the Spirit Hebrews 12:4–7 teaches that discipline is a mark of God’s love. Trials and setbacks are not evidence of abandonment—they are tools used by the Spirit to build our character and refine our faith. Though God does not cause evil, He allows trials to strengthen us, and the Spirit walks with us through those moments (Romans 8:26–27). Some resist this discipline—gritting their teeth or ignoring the lessons. But true growth only comes when we humbly accept God’s correction and change course. Submission to the Spirit’s discipline leads to spiritual fruit. The Path Forward If we desire to bear the fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control—we must begin with the right foundation. Walking in the Spirit means: Submitting to the Word Yielding to the Spirit’s power Embracing His discipline These are not mystical practices, but practical, daily choices. The more we align ourselves with the Spirit, the more His fruit will become visible in our lives. Let us not settle for a flesh-driven life marked by division, impurity, and spiritual apathy. Instead, let us walk by the Spirit—and in doing so, glorify the One who saved us.

In his letter to the Galatians, Paul draws a powerful contrast between the works of the flesh and the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:13–25). He was not merely offering a list of good behaviors—he was guiding Christians to understand the difference between living by the flesh and living by the Spirit. In a world prone to religious confusion, Paul reminds us that our spiritual maturity stems not from self-imposed rituals or human traditions, but from full submission to God through His word and Spirit. The fruit of the Spirit is not something we generate by our own willpower. Instead, it is cultivated in us as we walk with the Spirit—submitting to God’s Word, enduring trials, strengthening our prayer life, and remaining connected to His people. This fruit grows in three beautiful clusters: 1. Love, Joy, Peace.  These are inner experiences produced by the Spirit as we understand the grace of God through Christ. Love reflects God’s treatment of us, joy stems from knowing our salvation, and peace offers calm assurance even in the face of suffering. 2. Patience, Kindness, Goodness.  This set relates to how we interact with others. True spiritual living means enduring trials with grace, being generous and tender-hearted, and actively doing good for others. These virtues reveal God's grace not only in us but through us. 3. Faithfulness, Gentleness, Self-Control. These characteristics help maintain a disciplined, godly life. Faithfulness reflects loyalty to God and others; gentleness (or meekness) is strength under control; and self-control is the inner resolve that helps us keep in step with God's will, resisting temptation and sin. Paul reminds us that these attributes are not simply optional upgrades to Christian living—they are evidence that we are walking in the Spirit. They validate our claim to be in Christ more than any external practice or profession. As Jesus said, “You will know them by their fruits” (Matthew 7:16). So, what does spiritual fruit prove? It shows that we are truly in Christ, that we have crucified the flesh, and that the Spirit is active in our lives. It isn’t perfection by human effort, but the perfection granted through faith, manifested by submission. To pursue the fruit of the Spirit is to pursue the “more perfect you”—a version of yourself shaped and sanctified by the Spirit of God.

In his letter to the Galatians, the apostle Paul gave a powerful and sobering warning to Christians about the danger of living according to the flesh. In Galatians 5:19–21, Paul outlines the behaviors that separate us from God and declares plainly: “They which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.” This isn’t just a list of bad behaviors—it’s a spiritual mirror. When Paul talks about the “works of the flesh,” he’s exposing what it looks like when someone chooses the world over Christ. For those who claim to walk in the Spirit, this passage is a call to honest reflection and spiritual vigilance. A Closer Look at the Four Groups of Fleshly Works Paul divides these sinful behaviors into four broad categories: 1. Sexual Sins These include adultery, fornication, uncleanness, and lasciviousness. In every generation, sexual immorality is a clear indicator of rebellion against God's design. Whether it's unfaithfulness in marriage or unrestrained lust, these behaviors reflect a life ruled by the flesh—not by the Spirit. 2. Spiritual Blindness Idolatry and sorcery (witchcraft) are examples of substituting man-made or demonic power for the sovereignty of God. Today, these may manifest in more subtle forms—such as an obsession with material wealth, celebrity culture, occult practices, or prioritizing anything over the Lord in our lives. 3. A Divisive Spirit Hatred, jealousy, outbursts of anger, disputes, and factions reveal the rotten fruit of a heart that has not been transformed. While sexual sins are often condemned outright, divisive behaviors are tolerated far too often—even in the church. Yet Paul makes clear that these, too, are the marks of a worldly life. 4. Insobriety Drunkenness and carousing show a lack of self-control. Paul’s point isn’t just about alcohol—it’s about addiction, recklessness, and any behavior that sacrifices godliness for momentary pleasure. The Point of the List: A Heart Check Paul’s intent isn’t to catalog every sin, but to show us what the flesh looks like in action. He says, “and such like,”  because there are countless other attitudes and actions that fall under these categories. The key question is: What do our lives reflect—flesh or Spirit? If these sinful habits are part of our regular behavior—not isolated moments of weakness, but defining patterns—then we are not walking in the Spirit, and Paul warns that we will not inherit the kingdom of God. The Good News This teaching may sound heavy, but it’s not without hope. Galatians 5 doesn’t end with the works of the flesh—it leads into the fruit of the Spirit (vv. 22–23). When we walk by the Spirit, we leave the flesh behind. Our salvation in Christ is a transformation that begins with faith and continues in obedience. As Paul said, “They that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts”  (Galatians 5:24). It’s not enough to believe in Jesus—we must also walk in the new life He gives us. Reflection Questions: Which “works of the flesh” do you see creeping into your heart or life? Are there areas where you’ve tolerated sin because it’s socially acceptable? What steps can you take to “walk in the Spirit” more faithfully this week?

“Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.”  — Matthew 5:48 In a world that either idolizes perfection or dismisses it as unattainable, Scripture calls Christians to pursue something far greater than self-improvement: spiritual perfection in Christ . This pursuit isn’t about flawless performance—it’s about transformation, sanctification, and faithfully walking in the Spirit. Perfection Begins with Obedience to the Gospel When we obey the gospel—believing in Christ, repenting of sin, confessing His name, and being baptized—we enter into what can be called a "perfect state"  before God. This moment is described in many ways throughout the New Testament: Saved  (Mark 16:16) Born Again  (John 3:3) Justified  (Romans 3:24) Washed  (1 Corinthians 6:11) Redeemed  (1 Peter 1:18) Righteous  (1 Corinthians 1:30) In that moment, we are spiritually made perfect—not because of our efforts, but because of our faith in Christ’s perfect sacrifice . “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God.”  — Ephesians 2:8 Living in an Imperfect World with a Perfect Status Even though God considers us perfect through Christ, we still live in a fallen world and battle against sin. We are not sinless—but we are cleansed , justified , and called  to grow in holiness. When we stumble, we have the second law of pardon —the promise of forgiveness if we confess our sins (1 John 1:9). This grace is not a license to sin, but a reminder that we are continually being shaped into the image of Jesus. Pursuing Perfection is a Daily Commitment Paul doesn’t call Christians to settle for grace without growth. Instead, we are to “present [our] bodies a living sacrifice”  (Romans 12:1) and “be transformed by the renewing of [our] mind.”  This active pursuit of spiritual maturity is what Scripture calls: Sanctification  (Romans 6:19) Faithfulness  (3 John 1:5) Perseverance  (Ephesians 6:18) Holiness  (Colossians 3:12) The Spirit, through the word, leads us away from the works of the flesh (Galatians 5:19–21) and into the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22–23). The Harmony of a Life Pursuing Perfection When we walk in the Spirit and seek to reflect Christ, it produces harmony: With God  — because we are living according to His will. With others  — because we serve in humility and love (Philippians 2:1–5). Within ourselves  — because our conscience is clean, and our life has a purpose. This harmony creates what Paul calls the fruit of the Spirit , not only transforming us but blessing those around us. It results in genuine worship, authentic fellowship, and a deep, abiding joy. Final Thought We are made perfect in Christ through faith—but we are also called to pursue  perfection through daily surrender, spiritual growth, and love for others. Don’t settle for being stagnant. Seek the perfection of Christ as your daily goal.  Let it shape your worship, your character, your relationships, and your life. “Let us go on unto perfection.”  — Hebrews 6:1

“Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.”  — Matthew 5:48 In a world that either dismisses perfection as a myth or redefines it on human terms, the Bible holds firm: perfection is real—and it is the standard for the Christian life . However, Christian perfection is not akin to the world's concept of success or flawlessness. It is not about being the “best version of yourself,” nor is it about denying your identity in pursuit of some mystical goal. Christian perfection is modeled in Christ , and it is both commanded and made possible through the gospel. A Standard the World Rejects Atheists and humanists often deny that perfection exists. Their values promote either personal potential (“Be the best you can be”) or self-acceptance without striving (“I'm okay, you're okay”). Others—such as Eastern religions—pursue a kind of “perfection” that involves eliminating desire or identity. Even in religious systems like Judaism and Islam, perfection is often corporate—tied to political or cultural goals. In paganism, survival and superstition take the place of moral refinement. But Christianity is different . It calls each person to strive for perfection modeled on Jesus Christ—the sinless Son of God. The Model of Perfection: Jesus Christ Unlike man-made standards, Christ’s perfection is both visible and attainable —not through human merit, but through obedient faith. His life, words, and works offer a comprehensive portrayal of what human perfection entails. As we compare ourselves to Him, two things become clear: We are far from perfect. We cannot attain perfection by human effort alone. Yet, we are still called to strive for it . Conditional Perfection in Christ When a person believes in Christ, repents of sin, confesses His name, and is baptized (Galatians 3:26–27), they are saved—and they are made perfect in God’s sight . This conditional perfection  does not mean sinlessness. It means that God counts them as perfect because of their faith in Jesus and obedience to His Word. “For he hath made him to be sin for us… that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.” – 2 Corinthians 5:21 This status gives the Christian confidence to pray, serve, and face death with hope. It’s not based on our worthiness, but on Christ’s sacrifice on our behalf. Maturity: The Visible Growth Toward Christlikeness While we are perfect in Christ, we are not yet perfected in character. Therefore, we pursue maturity —spiritual growth that makes us more like Jesus day by day. Maturity is: Letting go of sinful habits. Growing in biblical knowledge. Learning to forgive. Developing godly attitudes. Bearing the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22–23). This process is not optional—it is part of our calling. As long as we remain in the flesh, we are faced with a choice: repeat the sinful patterns of the past , or pursue Christlikeness and grow into the perfection God desires for us  (Galatians 5:13–25). Why Strive for Perfection? We pursue actual spiritual perfection: Expresses faith  in the Perfect One—Jesus Christ. Witnesses to the world  through our conduct and character. Enables joy , peace, and purpose in our lives now. Shapes the church  into a community that reflects heaven. Guards our souls  from the world’s influence. Answers life’s greatest question : “What should I do with my life?” Prepares us  for the reward that awaits in eternity. Final Thought Perfection, as described in Scripture, is not about self-promotion or external achievement. It’s about Christlikeness —and that is the only worthy goal for every disciple. By walking in the Spirit, we strive each day to grow more like Christ. And when Christ returns, we will be changed fully—transformed into the perfect image we’ve long pursued (Philippians 3:8–14; 1 Corinthians 15:50–58). “Let us go on unto perfection…” – Hebrews 6:1

“Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.”  — Galatians 5:16 Galatians 5 is one of the most powerful calls in the New Testament for Christians to live by the Spirit of God. But to fully appreciate Paul’s message, we need to understand the historical and doctrinal background behind this chapter—and why Paul wrote such passionate words to the churches of Galatia. False Teachers Were Distorting the Gospel In the early church, Jewish Christians known as Judaizers were insisting that Gentile believers must be circumcised and keep parts of the Mosaic Law to be truly saved. They were adding requirements that Christ never gave. Paul condemned this teaching as a perversion of the gospel (Galatians 1:6–8). He made it clear: salvation comes through grace by faith in Christ—not through the Mosaic Law. Paul’s Authority and the True Gospel Paul defended his apostleship fiercely. He reminded the Galatians that his message wasn’t man-made—it came by direct revelation from Jesus Christ (Galatians 1:11–12). He even confronted Peter when Peter’s behavior suggested that Gentiles were second-class Christians (Galatians 2:11–14). Paul was committed to the truth: Justification comes by faith, not by works of the law  (Galatians 2:16). Perfection Is Found in Christ In Galatians 3:26–27, Paul taught that all who have been baptized into Christ have “put on Christ.” In God's eyes, they are made perfect through their obedience to the Gospel of Christ. This perfection is granted through faith and obedience, not through the merit of keeping rules or rituals of the Mosaic Law. Paul warns that those who try to justify themselves through the law are “fallen from grace” (Galatians 5:4). Why the False Teaching Was So Appealing Paul understood the allure of legalism: It appeals to pride  — earning your salvation allows comparison and status. It gives a sense of control  — man-made systems elevate human leaders who dictate the rules. But the true gospel humbles us. It levels the playing field. It calls all to surrender to a Savior. Walk in the Spirit, Not the Flesh Rather than returning to law, Paul urges Christians to live by the Spirit: “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith…”  (Galatians 5:22) These fruits prepare us for heaven—they are evidence  that Christ lives in us now. They comfort us and testify to the world that even though we’re still in a physical body, we belong to a heavenly kingdom. Final Thought In Galatians 5, Paul shows us that the pursuit of perfection isn’t about flawless behavior—it’s about faithful living . By walking in the Spirit, we honor the perfection God sees in us through Christ. We show the world that salvation isn’t earned— it’s received. Don’t fall for a man-made gospel. Cling to Christ. Let His word lead you. And remember, your perfection is secure—because the blood of Christ continually cleanses those who walk in the light.

“Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying...” — Ephesians 4:29 We live in a world dominated by digital communication. Our phones and computers connect us instantly—but they also reveal our hearts. What once might have stayed private is now shared, posted, or sent in seconds. But Scripture hasn’t changed: God still holds us accountable for every word—even those typed on a screen . Technology Is Not the Enemy Phones, computers, and the internet can be powerful tools for spreading truth and encouraging others. We now have access to religious resources that were once prohibitively expensive. Websites, sermons, and online communities are bringing the gospel to previously unreachable corners of the world. But these tools can also become weapons —used for gossip, slander, lust, and pride. “We are accountable for how we use them.” If temptation is too strong, Jesus' words are clear: “If thy right eye offend thee, pluck it out…”  (Matthew 5:30). Nothing is worth losing your soul—not even your smartphone. Digital Dangers Facing This Generation 1. Cyberbullying: Using the internet to lie, insult, or destroy reputations is sin—pure and simple. Ephesians 4:31 tells us to put away “bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking.” Christians must never participate in or tolerate this behavior. 2. Sexting and Pornography: These sins damage the mind, heart, and soul. They warp God’s design for intimacy and lead to shame, addiction, and often, legal consequences. “Flee fornication”  (1 Corinthians 6:18). That includes what you see and send online. 3. Social Media Addiction and Approval-Seeking: Many teens suffer from “Facebook depression”—feeling worthless when they don’t get likes or attention. Some post harmful, humiliating content just to get noticed. However, true discipleship means  denying oneself , not glorifying oneself (Matthew 16:24). Parents: Be a Wall of Protection Children are not miniature adults. They are easily deceived and influenced (Ephesians 4:14). Parents must: Set boundaries on screen time and access. Keep TVs and computers out of bedrooms. Use content filters and monitor devices. Build homes centered on God’s Word (Romans 12:2). Give your children your time , your love, and your example. Let your home be a place of peace—not pressure. Build a Foundation on the Word of God As culture shifts, truth remains. Young people need Scripture to help them distinguish between good and evil. Parents must teach, guide, and discipline with love—establishing godly boundaries that will shape a lifetime. “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind...” — Romans 12:2 Final Thought Smartphones and social media don’t make people sin— people choose to sin . But with God's help, His Word, and wise accountability, we can use technology for what it was never built to do: glorify the Lord . Let us strive to ensure that everything we post, text, or share reflects the grace and truth of Christ.

“Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”  — Matthew 6:33 We live in a world filled with noise, competition, and distractions. It’s easy to become consumed by what we see, feel, and chase every day. However, Scripture calls us to a higher focus: to prioritize spiritual matters above all else. The account of the man lowered through the roof to reach Jesus (Luke 5:17–26) illustrates this principle powerfully—and personally. 1. Choose Friends Who Help You Get to Jesus When a man afflicted with palsy could not reach Jesus because of the crowd, his friends didn’t give up. They carried him, lifted him, and lowered him through the roof to get him to the Savior. Jesus saw their faith —not just the man’s. What kind of people surround you? Choose friends who: Will carry you in prayer when you’re weak Encourage you in righteousness Tell you when you’re wrong—and help you make it right “Better is open rebuke than hidden love.”  — Proverbs 27:5 “Walk with the wise and become wise…”  — Proverbs 13:20 Godly friendships aren’t always comfortable, but they are always valuable. The people closest to us should help us get closer to Christ. 2. Value the Spiritual Above the Physical When the paralytic was brought before Jesus, the first thing Jesus did wasn’t to heal his body—it was to forgive his sins. To everyone watching, this was unexpected. But Jesus knew the man’s greatest need wasn’t physical—it was spiritual . So often, we obsess over temporary things: money, health, status, comfort. Yet Jesus teaches that the soul is eternal—and nothing else matters if we’re lost. “Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth… but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven…”  — Matthew 6:19–21 Spiritual priorities begin with recognizing that our true wealth isn’t in what we have, but in who we are in Christ. 3. Remember: All Have Sinned When Jesus ate with Levi the publican and his friends (Luke 5:27–32), the Pharisees criticized Him. In their eyes, Jesus was associating with sinners. But they missed the point: Jesus wasn’t condoning sin—He was calling sinners to repentance. The Pharisees failed to see their own need for grace. They thought they were spiritually healthy. But Jesus came to heal the sick—not those who think they’re already whole. “For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God.”  — Romans 3:23 We must not fall into the trap of spiritual pride. Regardless of our background, education, status, or level of religious knowledge, we all need Jesus. Final Thought: What Are You Putting First? Are you surrounding yourself with godly friends? Are you seeking spiritual healing over worldly gain? Are you humbly aware of your need for grace? When we align our lives around Christ—when we seek first  the kingdom of God—we’ll find the peace, purpose, and promise that only He can give.

“Submitting yourselves to one another in the fear of God.” — Ephesians 5:21 In today’s world, the idea of submission is often misunderstood and maligned. It is labeled as oppressive, outdated, and even dangerous. Whether it’s within the home, the church, or society at large, submission is rarely viewed as a virtue. Yet the Bible presents it as a foundational principle for the Christian life—modeled perfectly by Jesus Himself. The True Meaning of Submission To submit  is to yield—to voluntarily place oneself under the authority, judgment, or direction of another. As Vine’s Expository Dictionary notes, it involves not only action but attitude . You can obey without submitting, but you cannot submit without a heart aligned in humility and trust. Submission is not weakness. It is a strength under control. It is not silence—it is surrendering pride for the sake of peace, unity, and faithfulness to God. Why the World Rejects Submission Modern culture glorifies independence and self-rule. “No one can tell me what to do” is a common mantra. But that mindset leads to rebellion, chaos, and the breakdown of relationships—just as it did for Satan and the fallen angels who refused to stay in their God-given place (Jude 6). Even in the church, some resist biblical teachings on submission because they perceive them as restrictive. Yet when God calls us to submit—whether to parents, elders, husbands, or government—it is for our good and His glory. The Biblical Pattern of Submission Scripture outlines multiple relationships where submission is commanded: To God:  The ultimate submission is to His will (James 4:7). To Civil Authority:  Christians are to obey laws unless they contradict God’s commands (Romans 13:1; Acts 5:29). Wives to Husbands:  Not as inferiors, but as partners following God’s design (1 Peter 3:1). Children to Parents:  For their own protection and training (Ephesians 6:1). Servants to Masters (or Employees to Employers):  With integrity and diligence, even under poor treatment (1 Peter 2:18). Church Members to Elders:  Trusting godly leadership for the health of the congregation (Hebrews 13:17). Each of these roles reflects God’s divine order—not inequality, but unity and purpose. Christ: The Supreme Example Philippians 2:5–11 presents Jesus as the ultimate model of submission. Though equal with God, He humbled Himself , took on human flesh, and became obedient unto death —all for our salvation. “He made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant…” — Philippians 2:7 If the sinless Son of God could submit to the will of the Father—even unto death—what excuse do we have to resist submission in our own lives? Final Thought Submission doesn’t mean inferiority. It means choosing God’s way over our own. It is the pathway to peace, the mark of maturity, and the heartbeat of Christian unity. May we learn to submit—not because culture demands it, but because Christ modeled it .

“Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf.”  — 1 Peter 4:16 When we discuss the Christian lifestyle, many people envision rules, restrictions, and rigid routines. Some think it’s about giving up everything enjoyable, while others assume it just means attending church a few times a week. These are common misconceptions—but they don’t reflect the true life of someone transformed by Christ. A Life Changed by Christ When a person becomes a Christian, it’s not just their schedule that changes—it’s their purpose, values, and identity. Scripture tells us that we are delivered from the power of darkness and transferred into the kingdom of Christ (Colossians 1:13). This means we now live by a higher calling, guided by a spiritual compass that is rooted in God’s Word and the example of Jesus. A New Motivation Before knowing Christ, life was often centered on self—how to be more successful, attractive, secure, or admired. But as Jesus said, “Ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world”  (John 15:19). Now, we are motivated by God's will. Our goals shift from self-glory to service, from chasing pleasure to seeking holiness. We don’t live to consume but to contribute. We don’t act out of pride, but out of humility. We’re not aiming for temporary success, but for eternal reward. Living as a Living Sacrifice Romans 12:1–2 calls Christians to be “living sacrifices,” offering our lives wholly to God. That means our lifestyle isn’t defined by mere attendance at religious services—it’s defined by daily obedience, sacrifice, and spiritual renewal. Church assemblies are important, but they are the overflow of a life already lived in service. As Paul wrote, when we are baptized into Christ, we “put on Christ” (Galatians 3:27). That means every decision, relationship, and response should reflect His character. The True Joy of the Christian Lifestyle True joy doesn’t come from selfish ambition or worldly success. It comes from knowing God’s will and doing it. God doesn’t restrict joy—He protects it. The things He calls us to avoid (adultery, dishonesty, selfishness, pride) are the very things that destroy peace and happiness. So what does the Christian lifestyle really look like? It’s a life focused on Christ. It’s a mindset rooted in the Word, not the world. It’s a heart devoted to serving, not consuming. It’s a soul at peace, even in trial—because of hope in eternity. Let your life reflect the One you follow. Not just on Sundays, but every day.

In Colossians 3, the apostle Paul calls believers to set their minds on things above, not on earthly things—because our lives are now hidden with Christ in God. When Jesus is our “all in all,” everything changes: our desires, our priorities, and our very identity. So what does it mean for Jesus to be your all in all? It means your life revolves around Him. You've died to the old life and been raised with Christ through baptism (Colossians 2:11–13). Your focus shifts from worldly distractions to the eternal treasures found in Christ. Like the man who found a treasure hidden in a field and sold everything to buy it (Matthew 13:44), the Christian recognizes that knowing Christ is worth more than anything this world can offer. Being fully committed to Jesus means putting to death the sins of the past—both internal struggles like lust and covetousness, and outward actions like anger, lying, or filthy speech. These things have no place in the life of someone who walks with Jesus. Instead, we are to put on the “new man” with virtues like mercy, kindness, humility, patience, and forgiveness. These qualities reflect a renewed mind and a heart that is ruled by the peace of Christ. We treat others not based on worldly divisions but based on the unity we have in Christ, who is “all, and in all.” Jesus as “my all in all” means surrendering every part of life—mind, body, and soul—to His will. It’s a radical transformation that changes how we think, how we treat others, and how we view our purpose in the world. And when Christ returns, the glory of that new life will be fully revealed. So ask yourself: Is Jesus truly my all in all? Does He have preeminence in my life? If not, there is no better time to begin than today.