We are Children of Promise by the Power of the Spirit

January 25, 2013 - Galatians 4:28-29

4:28		弟 兄 們 、 我 們 是 憑 著 應 許 作 兒 女 、 如 同 以 撒 一 樣 。
4:29		當 時 那 按 著 血 氣 生 的 、 逼 迫 了 那 按 著 聖 靈 生 的 ． 現 在 也 是 這 樣 。

²⁸ Now you, brothers and sisters, like Isaac, are children of promise. ²⁹ At that time the son born according to the flesh persecuted the son born by the power of the Spirit. It is the same now.

Paul proclaims that we believers are children of promise, like Issac born to Abraham at his old age. Our spiritual birth is a miracle like that of Issac to Abraham who was too old to have a son again. Paul continues to affirm that we are also born by the power of the Spirit who regenerates us and brings us new life that is now being persecuted by the flesh. Paul delineates a contrast or opposition between promise and human's will; and the power of the Spirit and of the flesh. 

My Heavenly Father, on the one hand I thank for choosing me and giving me new birth by the Power of the Spirit that I can become your beloved son like Jesus. Without your promise and power, I can never be born again and will remain in my flesh forever that is hostile to you. Continue to give me faith in you that you can regenerate my unbelieving family members according to your promise and power to them. In You and Your Spirit's Power, even the dead and unregenerate can be renewed with new life. Everything is possible in You. On the other hand, I am now also in a persecution by or spiritual warfare with the flesh that comes from my old self or the world. I need to stay close to the Holy Spirit, seeking for your Power and Presence for fighting against the flesh. Keep my step with the Holy Spirit. You are the source of Life and Power in us.