Day 6 - Lent 2026

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.”

GALATIANS 5:22-25

Renewal is not a one-time event; it is a daily embrace. Growth is not accidental; it is cultivated. In Galatians 5:22–25, Paul reminds us that spiritual growth is the natural evidence of a life surrendered to the Spirit of God. Just as fruit grows from a healthy tree, renewal grows from a heart rooted in Christ.

When we speak of embracing renewal, we are choosing to allow the Holy Spirit to reshape our attitudes, reactions, and relationships. Love replaces resentment. Joy rises above circumstances. Peace quiets anxious thoughts. Patience steadies us when growth feels slow. Gentleness softens our responses. Goodness guides our decisions. Faith anchors our trust. Meekness humbles our strength. Self-control guards our choices.  These qualities are not self-manufactured; they are Spirit-produced.

Growth requires surrender. Verse 24 tells us that those who belong to Christ have crucified the flesh—meaning we intentionally lay down old habits, harmful patterns, and prideful tendencies. Renewal often feels uncomfortable because it requires releasing what is familiar in order to receive what is better.

Verse 25 challenges us further: “If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.” Living speaks to our identity; walking speaks to our daily conduct. Renewal begins inwardly but must be demonstrated outwardly.

To embrace renewal and growth is to say:

I will not remain who I used to be.

I will allow God to mature me.

I will reflect Christ more today than I did yesterday.

After years of experience, whether in ministry, career, or life, we can still grow. In fact, maturity should deepen our fruit, not diminish it. Growth is lifelong. Renewal is continuous. The Spirit is faithful.

Let us pray: Lord, thank You for the gift of Your Spirit. Help me to embrace renewal in every season of my life. Cultivate in me the fruit that reflects Your character. Teach me to surrender what hinders my growth and to walk daily in alignment with You. May my life show evidence of love, joy, peace, and self-control. Renew me, grow me, and use me for Your glory. 

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

SUBMITTED BY DEACON NANCY SAMMS