Spiritual Living - Part 2

Introduction: As followers of Christ, we are to live above the world’s standards. Our actions, reactions, and attitudes should resemble a supernatural life. Verses 9-21 seem to be a commentary of verse 2.

A Spiritual Life Is A Life Of:

Genuine Love (Romans 12:9a)     (John 13:35)

• By Fighting Evil (Romans 12:9b)                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        “There are six things the Lord hates, seven that are detestable to Him: haughty eyes (arrogance), a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are quick to rush into evil, a false witness who pours out lies, and a person who stirs up conflict in the community."     (Proverbs 6:16-19--NIV)

• By Desiring Good (Romans 12:9c)

• By Reacting Tenderly (Romans 12:10a)

• By Demonstrating Honor (Romans 12:10b)

Contagious Zeal  (Romans 12:11)

Optimistic Endurance

• By Being Positive (Romans 12:12a)

• By Being Patient (Romans 12:12b)                                                                                    “And not only this, but [with joy] let us exult in our sufferings and rejoice in our hardships, knowing that hardship (distress, pressure, trouble) produces patient endurance; and endurance, proven character (spiritual maturity); and proven character, hope and confident assurance [of eternal salvation]. Such hope [in God’s promises] never disappoints us, because God’s love has been abundantly poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.”  (Romans 5:3-5--Amplified)

• By Being Prayerful (Romans 12:12c)

Generous Hospitality

• By Meeting Other’s Needs (Romans 12:13a)

• By Opening Our Hearts (Romans 12:13b)

Unconditional Response  (Romans 12:14)

Sympathetic Feelings  (Romans 12:15)

Impartial Fellowship  (Romans 12:16)

Opposite Recourse 

• By Opposing Our Flesh (Romans 12:17-18)

• By Not Submitting To Our Flesh (Romans 12:19)

• By Overcoming Our Flesh (Romans 12:20-21)

Application:  The spiritual life can only be lived when the flesh is crucified and a genuine love for God and others is demonstrated.  Which of the above is most difficult for you?