Contrast
I learned early on what this word meant. It means when two things are “strikingly different from one another”. Colors usually offer lots of contrast, especially the primary colors. However, when I’m trying to pick out different shades of green, the contrast is not so obvious as if I’m choosing red over green.
Paul speaks to the Galatia church about the contrast of those who walk in the Spirit versus those who walk in the flesh. Check this out…
16 So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. 17 For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want. 18 But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. 19 The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; 20 idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions 21 and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God. 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. 26 Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other. (Galatians 5:16-26 NIV)
My life as a Christian should have some “contrast” with those who are not believers in God. My lifestyle should reflect the values of the Holy Spirit in me. If there is no contrast in my lifestyle, it might be wise for me to do a check up. The obvious acts of the flesh lead to self-destruction even though they are fun for a season. I wish I could say I’ve never been on that road – but I’m pretty sure everyone has been on the destructive path before. The path to life is quite a contrast to the path of destruction. The journey is way different. The end is way different. I want to finish well by living with the Holy Spirit in me all the days of my life here on earth.
Pressing On! Dwayne