| Galatians 5:17 – “For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want.” |
Fruit doesn’t grow in every climate…even in the Lone Star State.
Head west from DFW a few hours and cotton fields stretch as far as the eyes can see. Head east from DFW for less than an hour and peach trees line the piney woods. Head south from DFW for what seems like a cross-country trek and oranges the size of basketballs hang from citrus trees in “The Valley.” Well, maybe not the size of basketballs, but everything is bigger in Texas.
But why aren’t oranges harvested in desolate West Texas? Why aren’t apples or kiwis competing in “The Valley?” Even “city slickers” can answer those agricultural questions.
It’s not the right climate.
In Galatians 5, the apostle Paul says the Holy Spirit produces fruit in our lives (Galatians 5: 22-23). It’s important to note that we don’t generate the Spirit’s fruit. Some say, “You should be more loving. You should be more patient. You should be more gentle and more self-controlled.” Admirable ambitions, for sure, but we don’t produce the fruit; therefore, we don’t deserve the credit for the harvest. We yield to the Holy Spirit’s power and authority, and HE flows a transformed life through us.
Even still, we must remember when and where the Spirit does His best work.
In the right climate.
If we choose us, it’s difficult for the Spirit to change us.
In fact, Paul said it’s impossible: “For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want.” (Galatians 5: 17, NIV)
To be led by the Spirit, filled by the Spirit, and walk with the Spirit, we must cultivate the right climate, making room for His transformative power by draining the shallow selfishness that wrecks our lives.
The habits we form and the company we keep are directly connected to the fruit that is produced in our lives.
We can’t expect oranges to grow in an arctic tundra. In the same way, we can’t expect spiritual power to change a carnal heart.
What’s your climate?
- Jacob Hawk
