Tag: New Creation

Supernatural Instincts

Our natural instincts often feel like second nature—habits of thought, emotion, and action that seem to spring from within us effortlessly. But in Jude 1:19, we’re reminded of a sobering truth: living by these instincts alone is a hallmark of those who are “devoid of the Spirit.”

When we live solely by what feels natural, we’re living as though God’s Spirit has no say in our lives. We respond to insults with anger, hoard instead of give, and prioritize comfort over calling. These instincts come naturally because they’re the residue of a fallen world. Left unchecked, they lead to division, selfishness, and spiritual barrenness.

But for those of us who are in Christ, the Spirit is at work, transforming us from the inside out. This transformation is not instantaneous—it’s a lifelong process of replacing natural instincts with Spirit-led responses. Anger becomes patience. Fear gives way to trust. Selfishness shifts toward generosity, and pride dissolves into humility. This change isn’t about suppressing who we are but about becoming who we were created to be. When we listen to the Spirit and yield to His leading, He cultivates within us the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, and more. These virtues are not natural—they’re supernatural, evidence of God’s work in our lives.

Take a moment to reflect: Do your responses to life’s challenges align more with natural instincts or with the Spirit’s guidance? The goal is not perfection but progression. As you continue to walk with Jesus, the Spirit works to align your heart with God’s, enabling you to live beyond instinct. This week, ask the Spirit to highlight one natural instinct that needs to be surrendered to His work. Pay attention to situations that trigger that instinct and pray for His strength to respond differently. Over time, you’ll notice the Spirit’s work replacing what’s natural with what’s holy.

Status Update

The book of Philemon is more than just a short letter—it’s a window into the radical redefinition of relationships that the Gospel brings. Onesimus, once a slave and a fugitive, is now described as a “beloved brother” in Christ. Imagine how shocking this must have been in a world that defined people by their status, wealth, or social position.

Paul’s appeal to Philemon isn’t grounded in authority or obligation but in love. He invites Philemon to see Onesimus not through the lens of societal hierarchy but through the eyes of Christ. This status update—from slave to brother—demonstrates the transformative power of the Gospel, which dismantles human divisions and unites us as one family in Christ.

But the letter doesn’t stop there. Paul steps in as an intercessor, offering to absorb any debt Onesimus owes. This act mirrors Christ’s work on the cross, taking our sins upon Himself and restoring our relationship with God. It’s a reminder of the grace we’ve been given and a call to extend that same grace to others.

So, how does this apply to us today?

We live in a world that constantly categorizes people: by their job, income, political views, or past mistakes. Like Philemon, we are called to update our perspective. In Christ, no one is “less than.” Are there people you’ve written off because of their past? Relationships you’ve allowed to remain broken? Paul’s letter challenges us to see others as God sees them—worthy of love, forgiveness, and restoration.

Let this be your status update: forgiven, redeemed, and called to reconcile with others.