I’ve been reading through the book of Romans, again, with the First 5 app, and as I read through chapter 8, some verses really jumped out at me. I always say that the bible is like an onion; every time you read it, something new is revealed. And during this particular season, verses 5-6 made me think differently than they usually do. In chapter 8 Paul talks to the Romans about how Christ’s life, death, & resurrection set us free from the law of sin and death. We once were enemies of God, but upon our acceptance of Christ as Savior, we are now filled with the Spirit and walk in the Spirit.

Well, verses 5-6 state, “For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace” (ESV). Two weeks ago we discussed when Peter stepped out of the boat to follow Jesus across the water. Only when he took his focus off of Jesus, and began to fear the wind and waves, did he begin to sink. These verses in Romans again reminded me, not to focus on the flesh and the physical things going on around us, but to focus on the spiritual. For it’s the Spirit of God dwelling within us that brings life and peace.

No matter what’s happening around us, for those who believe, we know to whom we belong, and we know that there’s nothing to fear. There’s no change in what God has called us to do…to love Him and to love our neighbor as ourselves (Matthew 22:36-40). So, keep encouraging your neighbor, give to them, bless them when you can, and speak peace into the hearts and minds of those around you.