Devotional: From Law to Spirit

Romans 8:1-4 “For what the Law could not do, weak as it was through the flesh, God did: sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and as an offering for sin, He condemned sin in the flesh, so that the requirement of the Law might be fulfilled in us, who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit” (Rom. 8:3-4, NASB). During the 1970s the speed limit on the interstate highways was fifty-five miles per hour. This lowered the speed limit by fifteen to twenty miles per hour. The federal government had lowered the speed limit to conserve gasoline while driving in our cars. I remember how difficult it was for me to stay within the speed limit. In fact, most of the time I continues to drive at the speed of seventy to seventy-five miles per hour. I see the signs. I know the law. I understand the reason for the law. Something in me makes me want to drive at the old speed limit. I am traveling from Cleveland, Ohio to Columbia, Tennessee; approximately 530 miles. If I drive the old speed limit I can save about two hours of driving. I am willing to risk getting a speeding ticket. The Law is weak. It cannot change my desires. It cannot change my way of thinking. Apostle Paul writes to the church in Rome. Rome is known for its laws and judicial system. It is probably the best in the world. Paul tells the Christians in Rome that the Law of Moses cannot save them. It is too weak. It cannot keep them from living according to the desires of the flesh. Their hope is in Jesus. If they believe in Jesus He will send the Holy Spirit to them. The Spirit will change their desires. The Spirit will change their behaviors. Here is the catch. They must make a conscious decision to live in the Spirit instead of living in the flesh. Prayer, worship, and meditation along with fellowshipping with other believers will help us to live in the Spirit. Prayer: Father in heaven we thank you for the sacrifice of your Son Jesus. We surrender our will to you. May your Spirit empower us to live according to Your will. Amen.