We were created as spiritual beings by a God who is spirit. We were created spirit, soul and body, but our spirit is foremost. To be a “spiritual” person does not mean we’re mystical, irrational nor unintelligent. The spiritual person is continually looking to God for His way. Most of the time His way is simply the way of the Scripture—do what the WORD says. That is actually the most spiritual thing to do. I assume my decisions are guided by the Holy Spirit unless He has said otherwise. By the way, I don’t always get right.
The structure of our lives is designed to be sensitive to God’s Holy Spirit. We are all influenced by the Holy Spirit but the challenge is for our minds to become spiritually minded. Paul said being spiritually minded is “life.”
Let me give you an illustration. Galatians tell us that “if anyone is caught in a trespass (sin as a result of temptation), you who are ‘spiritual’ (rational, intelligent, logical, fair) restore such a one, in a spirit of meekness.” What a beautiful spiritual duty! Please note, this does not relegate this responsibility to the leadership alone. The Galatians scripture adds a reason for this concern on our part: “Each one looking to yourself so that you too will not be tempted.” If we sin, we would want someone to help us find our way back, wouldn’t we?
We are all influenced by the Holy Spirit but the challenge is for our minds to become spiritually minded.
We are not infallible. Whatever sin one person commits, we could also commit. So in a spirit(attitude) of humble sensitivity, we must help a struggling, failing person get it sorted out between them and the Lord. No condemnation, just unconditional love and leading them back to repentance and restoration. This is called “spiritual.” This is hard work, and it might not feel very spiritual to you; it may actually feel like an endurance test. Some people are hard to work with.
In my mind, this may be the greatest demonstration of spirituality we can show. Who do you know that needs your spirituality? Who has stumbled and fallen and needs your rational mind, your practical help, and your humble spirituality in getting back with Jesus? Being spiritual is sometimes messy. You can’t just walk in give the word of the Lord and walk out. Sometimes you speak the Word and then put your arm around the individual and walk them out of that mess. Be available. Be willing and ready to restore these precious ones “in a spirit of meekness.”
