Romans 8:12-17
Strength in the Spirit

So we are freed from the slavery of sin to live in the Spirit.  But what does that actually mean?  Romans 8:12-17 gives us three amazing functions of the Spirit working in us.

 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.  (Romans 8:13)

Walking in the Spirit means putting to death the works of the old sinful nature.  This is a “better kill it before it kills you” situation and the Spirit gives us the power to conquer.

For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, “Abba! Father!”  (Romans 8:15)

Walking in the Spirit means responding to God as a loving father.  We no longer obey sin as a slave and fear the law.  If we return God’s love for us, we will love others as well, and thereby satisfy the essence of His commandments.

The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God and if children, then heirs (Romans 8:16)

Walking in the Spirit means an assurance that we are God’s children, with an eternal inheritance.  The Spirit brings us comforts and courage as we fight the law of sin—until the day our war is over and we reign with Christ.