Growing up on a military base, I heard all kinds of things. One of my favorite sounds was the cadence the recruits used when they were running in unison. (For some reason, this ditty stuck in my mind: “The girl I marry has got to be recon, airborne, UDT. All the way, every day.” What a silly thing to have filed away in my memory bank.)
But I digress. Cadence, though, is an important part of military training and execution. When the troops chant back and forth with their leader, those responses highlight a rhythmical motion and help everyone keep in step while they ignore the difficulties of long runs.
As believers, we too need to learn some cadence and keep in step with our spiritual leader, the Holy Spirit.
It is true that a nasty warfare does rage in all of us. The flesh and the Spirit duke it out daily, and that battle affects our walk.
In Galatians, Paul is encouraging believers as he emphasizes the truth that walking in the Spirit is another way to live by faith. When we choose to keep in step with the Spirit, we are glorifying Jesus as Lord and Savior. When we choose to march to the beat of our flesh, we reap chaos and defeat.
So how does the cadence for the believer sound? Well, I think it is a different tune for each of us. However, I am confident that as we yield to the Spirit, we will “hear” direction, find a godly rhythm for our lives, and be encouraged.
So, this week, let’s take to heart the three practical tips Pastor Jason gave us at the end of the message.
First, let’s immerse ourselves in spiritually healthy content (our Bible, great music, good conversations, and so on). Then, let’s engage in Spirit-directed thoughts as we affirm the promises of God, pray His words back to Him in attentive meditation, and take captive our wayward thoughts.
Finally, let’s march in step as we follow the Spirit’s direction in our life choices. Let’s spend time together with folks that love the Lord. Their impact will help us stay on track. Let’s enthusiastically worship corporately or by ourselves. Let’s listen for the Spirit’s direction as we take practical steps of faith.
“Left, right, left…” Can you hear the cadence of the Spirit?
Sherry Worel