There is a lot here but the theme that jumped out today was life by the Spirit. That is the challenge to us is to not go back to what may make more sense. Satan is always challenging what the spirit is doing. Knowing scripture is key to understanding the real deal. In 8:6 we are told "Now the mind of the flesh [which is sense and reason without the Holy Spirit] is death [death that comprises all the miseries arising from sin, both here and hereafter]. But the mind of the [Holy] Spirit is life and [soul] peace [both now and forever]. 7[That is] because the mind of the flesh [with its carnal thoughts and purposes] is hostile to God, for it does not submit itself to God’s Law; indeed it cannot.8 So then those who are living the life of the flesh [catering to the appetites and impulses of their carnal nature] cannot please or satisfy God, or be acceptable to Him.9 But you are not living the life of the flesh, you are living the life of the Spirit, if the [Holy] Spirit of God [really] dwells within you [directs and controls you]. But if anyone does not possess the [Holy] Spirit of Christ, he is none of His [he does not belong to Christ, is not truly a child of God]...13 For if you live according to [the dictates of] the flesh, you will surely die. But if through the power of the [Holy] Spirit you are [habitually] putting to death (making extinct, deadening) the [evil] deeds prompted by the body, you shall [really and genuinely] live forever.14 For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God.15 For [the Spirit which] you have now received [is] not a spirit of slavery to put you once more in bondage to fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption [the Spirit producing sonship] in [the bliss of] which we cry, Abba (Father)! Father!
(Amplified Bible)
How can we experience the new life that is intended? John 15:5 and following tells us to remain in the vine. We are not the vine but are branches. The vine gives life sustaining "Spirit" (of God) to remain alive, grow and be productive.
Stay in the vine. There is an enemy that will lie and tell you that is not necessary. We all need wisdom to follow God's plan and not take off on our own.
Be intentional; ask the enemy to leave and follow God's ways.
In Christ,
Dan
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