Can You Keep Up?

Galatians 5:25 ESV- If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit.

It’s the end of January. Statistics say that by this point, 58.4% of the “New Year’s Resolution Posse” has reverted back to their old habits. Whether it was due to unforeseen events, family responsibilities, job requirements, or just a lack of want-to, the largest part of the clan just couldn’t keep up with their newfound goals.

As far as 2017 is concerned, I’m not doing too shabby with my resolutions. But, I know it’s because I put a lot of forethought, planning, and predetermining how I was going to follow through. Before January even hit the books, I was rearranging my schedule, creating meal plans, buying calendars, preparing binders- you name it. I was not going to let another year go by with the same sad results the last- well, all of them- have had.

When I read over this passage of Scripture, the words “keep in step” stood out from the rest of the words on the page. Because my brain works in the weirdest of envisioning ways, I immediately thought of the “I Love Lucy” Zumba meme. (If you haven’t seen it, now would be a grand time to pull it up. It’s hilarious!) Poor thing; she just couldn’t keep up with the other gals she was dancing with. I know that feeling! Last year, I tried Zumba out. I had an absolute blast, but for the longest time, I was Lucy… I didn’t know what I was doing, and even once I did, my limbs weren’t yet ready for some of those moves.

I didn’t get too discouraged, though. I realized that it would take time. It would take consistency. It would take being tuned in and attentive to what the instructor was teaching.

Let’s think of that for a moment and reread the Scripture at the top of this page… If we have just been saved and are following Jesus, it’s like our first days in Zumba class. (Of course, it’s so much more important and precious, but you understand my point.) You’re going to be excited, sure. But you may also be slow in learning all the “right moves.” You might get a little agitated with yourself when you glance around and see those more seasoned seemingly gliding along all perfect-like. But, hey! You’re new to this. Give it some time. Just don’t stop. Keep it up. Read the Word and pay close attention to the instructions He gives you.

This applies to all believers. If you’ve been saved for a while, but you find yourself struggling with the same ol’ things, maybe you’re not being consistent in your prayer life or Bible reading. If you feel like you’re stuck in the same rhythm, and don’t see any change, try examining your Instructor’s example just a little closer. In order to grow in the Spirit, we have to keep in step with Him. We can’t lag behind or sit down on the sidelines. It won’t do us any good to turn around and go our own way. We should be perfectly choreographed with Jesus Christ; our movements should align just so with His. And honestly, it’s easy. His Spirit dwells within us, so as long as we surrender, it becomes a natural way to walk- or dance! ( Psalm 37:23)

PRAYER: Jesus, help me be consistent in my walk with You. Open my eyes to see which way you’re telling me to go. Help me pay close attention to Your words, so that I may understand what I need to do in every situation of my life. Teach me what it means to walk in the Spirit and live a life of faith. I don’t want to waste any time lagging behind. I want to keep in step with You. Thank You for enabling me to do so. In Your precious name, I pray this. Amen.