August 12

Since we live by the Spirit, let us walk in step with the Spirit. — Gal 5:25 BSB

The best way to rid our hearts of evil is to fill them with good.

Paul advises, “Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” If the Spirit guides us, we will grow closer to Christ. As our love for the Savior grows, we will become more invested in His work.

As a result, we will care less and less about worldly things.

Dr. Chalmers preached a sermon on Paul’s words, calling it “The Expulsive Power of a New Affection.” A deep love for Christ in the heart will push out all other loves that are not pure and holy. The evil things we are to get rid of are listed in this chapter.

It’s a dark list. The only way to keep these things out is to fill our lives with the good things from the “white list,” leaving no room for the evil. Light drives out darkness. Love expels hate. Holiness displaces sin.