Friday, October 23, 2026

Scripture

“If you are led by the Spirit, you are not subject to the law.” Galatians 5:18

Reflections

Pastor Dan Duncan of Believers Chapel in Dallas, Texas spoke of three ways to live; “under the law, without law, or Paul’s way which is with the Author of the Law (the Holy Spirit)”.  He illustrated each of these with three different kinds of dogs.

The first kind of dog is the kind of dog that needs to always be on a leash when it goes out.  Once the dog is on the leash, he pulls against it and doesn’t like it.  Periodically the dog will find itself being jerked back into line to get back on the path.  That is a picture of one “under the law”.

The second kind of dog is the kind of dog that is without a leash when outside.  He may wander freely without a master and without any guidance.  Such a dog will get into trash and get into fights.  Very likely, it will end up in the pound, or get hit by a car.  That is a picture of one “without law”.

The third kind of dog is the ideal dog.  He will come out of the house with his master and without a leash.  He goes about freely, but remains at his master’s command.  He is bound by love to his master.  That is a picture of one who walks by the Spirit and obeys out of love.  That’s the position of a believer in Jesus Christ.

Prayer

Lord God, thank you that I can walk alongside You and go wherever You go.  Guide me this day.  Keep me attentive that I might not stray too far from You.  In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Full Reading: Galatians 5:16-21