Young parents enthusiastically cheer and celebrate their toddler’s first steps! When we learn to stand up and step out after an injury, surgery, or illness, we lean upon physical therapists encouraging and helping us to get back on our feet. If we stumble or slip or otherwise lose our footing, we gain a fresh appreciation for the simple art of walking well.

So it resonates within our own hearts when we hear Paul urging the Galatians and us to walk by the Spirit—to lean completely, comprehensively, and collectively upon the Spirit’s enabling presence (5:16). We who once walked in sinful practices with the world’s values are now set free by Jesus so that we might keep in step with the Spirit. The gospel of our Father’s marvelous grace that saves us by faith in his Son also sanctifies us for faithfulness through his Spirit.