Saturday, December 27th 2025

Led by the Spirit

"Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently.." ( Gal 6:1).

The early church had a problem that could seem laughable except that it is so true even today. There was an apparent impasse about allocation of duties concerning the distribution of food. "In those days when the number of disciples was increasing, the Hellenistic Jews among them complained against the Hebraic Jews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food" ( Hebrews 6:1). Although it might appear pettty when such a matter is not handled carefully and with Godly wisdom it can easily get out of hand. The flesh can take over and before long the brethren are engaged in a furious war of counter accusations, bordering on physical confrontation. This is how churches break up in bitter wars.

This matter was taken to the leadership of the church and fortunately it was one led by the Spirit. "So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, “It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables. Brothers and sisters, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word" ( vv 2-4). It was a good proposal for not only did peace return but no longer distracted as the Apostles devoted themselves to the Ministry of the Word and prayer, " the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith" (vv 7).

Had the flesh been allowed to take over fruitful time would have been lost in damaging wars. But led by the Spirit the early church overcame a test that has damaged many relationships. For when flesh is let free reign instead of the leading of the Spirit our worst carnal nature rises and through which Satan dangerously operates. In our interactions may we always be on guard to be led by the Spirit, and not by the flesh!

Prayer today: Lord Father God of Abraham, maker of heaven and earth, today I pray that my life and relationships are led by the Spirit instead of the self seeking desires of the flesh, which I now subject to the power of the Spirit, this I pray in Jesus's name.