“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. … Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.” —Galatians 5:22–23, 25
Observing the culture around us can be overwhelming, discouraging and even frustrating at times. The problem-solving side of us wants desperately to make a list of what needs to be done, recruit a team to help tackle the items on the list and then celebrate a successful effort toward “fixing” the world, but in reality it all seems a bit out of reach.
However, those of us who are believers can make a giant step toward truly changing the world by focusing on our individual callings, taking care of the weeds and withered parts of our hearts, and allowing the Holy Spirit to nurture the fruit planted in us.
As each follower of Jesus Christ showcases genuine love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control, the environment around him or her shines brightly with beams from the one true Light.
You won’t have to worry about what to do next because being sensitive to the Spirit will surface the who, what, when, where, why and how at exactly the right time.
From there, a ripple effect can’t be stopped. Person after person after person will be changed and turn to project the love and grace of our Lord on down the line.
How do we achieve a natural outflowing of these nine world-changing characteristics?
By decluttering our hearts and minds, focusing on the Word and staying alert to the promptings of the Holy Spirit at such an intensity that we can’t help but “keep in step.”
Editor’s Note — The devotional thought shared here is one of 60 devotions in the special edition of “Be Known: Live Out Your Calling,” published to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the University of Mobile in December. It was an honor to be included in the book along with other leaders from Alabama Baptist life and the UM community. Learn more about the book below.
University of Mobile releases special edition ‘Be Known’ 60-day devotional book to commemorate upcoming 60th anniversary as Christ-centered institution
By Zac Douglas
University of Mobile
The recently released “Be Known: Live Out Your Calling” takes readers on a journey to explore ideas of purpose and calling to find encouragement as they pursue the calling God has for their lives.
The daily devotions — 60 devotions for 60 days — are written by alumni, faculty, staff, trustees and leaders in Baptist life, including Southern Baptist Convention President Ed Litton and Rick Lance, executive director of the Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions.
“Be Known: Live Out Your Calling” is available at the University of Mobile Store, The U. The U is located in Bedsole Commons on the University of Mobile campus or online at universityofmobilestore.com.
“Whether you are a member of the University of Mobile family, or pursuing the calling God has for your life, we hope the messages within the devotional bring comfort, encouragement and inspiration to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord, Jesus Christ,” said Lesa Moore, vice president for marketing and public relations at the University of Mobile.
“Be Known: Live Out Your Calling” was produced as part of the 60-year anniversary celebration of the University of Mobile. Proceeds fund scholarships for students attending the Baptist-affiliated university.
“The book speaks to a truth that spans the generations,” Moore said. “It’s as relevant to the alumni who graduated in the charter class of 1967 as it is to students attending today.”
Throughout 2021, UM is celebrating its diamond anniversary through Alumni of the Decade Awards, history exhibits, limited edition merchandise to support scholarships and more. For information on the University of Mobile 60th Diamond Anniversary Year and how to get involved, visit umobile.edu/celebrate60.
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