If the Bible speaks of the “spiritual,” our tendency is to think of something not visible or ghostly or otherworldly. But the Scriptures train us to see the word “spiritual” as the application of something formed in you by the Holy Spirit. The life that flows in the tree of human virtue is a product of the Holy Spirit who motivates and gives the power to live in these virtues.
“But the fruit of the Spirit is…”
When you think of “body” in the Bible think of your entire humanity, not just your flesh but your emotions, passions, desires, and decisions. The body is the battleground of good and evil. And the great battles of our Spirit-indwelt bodies are the nine great virtues of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. These are not abstract virtues, but virtues that touch our very being.
Prayer: O Spirit of God, move in us giving us new desires and renewing our love. Cause us to not grow weary in pursuing faithfulness to your call in abiding by the great biblical virtues through Christ our Lord, Amen.
