The Promise of the Spirit Through Faith

Text: Galatians 3:6-14

Reflection and Question: Paul is really exasperated with the Galatians and it comes out in this exhortation to remember that their faith, not their obedience to rules, is the heart of Christian life. Abraham’s faith is the example that Paul lifts up. And he insists that Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law “so that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.” Paul knew that some might try to use this as an excuse to throw all moral codes overboard. but that is clearly not what Paul meant. When faith, not obedience, is the essence of our relationship with God, what are the rules?

Prayer: Lord Jesus, You bore the curse to free us from the law and You gave us Your Spirit to inspire our faith. May we follow the example of Abraham, seeking to do Your will even when there is no map or rule, relying on Your guidance and care. Amen.

This meditation is based on the Daily Lectionary Year 1 from the Book of Common Worship for the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) (1993).