Francis A. Schaeffer, in "True Spirituality" writes: "The Christian life, true spirituality, can never have a mechanical solution. The real solution is being cast up into moment-by-moment communion, personal communion, with God himself, and letting Christ's truth flow through me through the agency of the Holy Spirit."
I read this quote yesterday which led me to the hymn "Channels Only" which led me to today's verse. Schaeffer's words point out that living by the Spirit is not a mechanical thing, it is not strictly following rules and regulations, or strictly reading an instruction manual. It does involve putting on the full armor of God, which we've been considering, but it is the faith and power of Jesus Christ, trusting God and being aware of and following the direction of the Spirit. There will be following of "routines", which are involved in putting on this armor, communing with God in His Word and in prayer, but it is all that we should be instruments, set apart for His work,
- How I praise Thee, precious Savior,
That Thy love laid hold of me;
Thou hast saved and cleansed and filled me
That I might Thy channel be. - Just a channel full of blessing,
To the thirsty hearts around;
To tell out Thy full salvation
All Thy loving message sound. - Emptied that Thou shouldest fill me,
A clean vessel in Thy hand;
With no pow'r but as Thou givest
Graciously with each command.
Channels only, blessed Master,
But with all Thy wondrous pow'r
Flowing through us, Thou canst use us
Every day and every hour.
Mike
Eph 1:7 In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace NIV
2 Timothy 2:20-22
New Living Translation (NLT)
20 In a wealthy home some utensils are made of gold and silver, and some are made of wood and clay. The expensive utensils are used for special occasions, and the cheap ones are for everyday use. 21 If you keep yourself pure, you will be a special utensil for honorable use. Your life will be clean, and you will be ready for the Master to use you for every good work.
22 Run from anything that stimulates youthful lusts. Instead, pursue righteous living, faithfulness, love, and peace. Enjoy the companionship of those who call on the Lord with pure hearts.
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