Dependent Reception
Inspired by insights from Abide Above
“Walk in [dependence upon] the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh.”
— Galatians 5:16
Many believers grasp the truth that they are justified by faith in Christ, yet struggle to understand that sanctification—our spiritual growth—is also by that same unwavering faith. Just as we rested in His finished work for our salvation, so too must we rest in Him for our growth and daily living.
It’s a common trap to believe that we must first overcome the desires of the flesh before we can begin walking by the Spirit. This backward thinking causes many to wait endlessly for a moment when they feel "ready" or more spiritually qualified. But Scripture tells us plainly: we walk in the Spirit first, and by doing so, the desires of the flesh lose their grip. Attempting to conquer the flesh on our own is futile because victory comes only as we yield to the Spirit within us.
Consider this: Imagine trying to push a stalled car up a steep hill alone. No matter how hard you strain, the weight overwhelms you. Yet, if you simply turn the key and engage the engine, the car moves forward with ease. Our walk with Christ is much the same. Striving in our own strength is exhausting and fruitless, but when we surrender control to the Holy Spirit—our true source of power—He moves us forward in victory.
Our role is not to "get better" first but to rely entirely on the Holy Spirit to live His life through us. This dependency is not passive but a moment-by-moment trust in His sufficiency.
“Be filled with [controlled by] the indwelling of the Spirit.”
— Ephesians 5:18 (Conybeare Translation)
Prayer:
Father, thank You for giving me the indwelling Holy Spirit as my guide and source of life. I trust You to live through me today. I release every burden and struggle, knowing You are fully capable of working in and through me. Lead me in Your ways, and let my life reflect Your presence. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Final Thought:
Victory over the flesh doesn’t come from striving but from surrender. Trust the Holy Spirit to lead, and He will empower you to walk in freedom.