In Step with the Spirit

In a pipe band we must keep in step with one another and play in unison.  We must listen well to those around us and be aware of the cadence set by the bass drummer for the tune itself.


Applied to life, the Scripture says, "Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep step with the Spirit."(Galatians 5:25)  In other words, just as we march and play in unison with the band, "walking" in our Christian lives must be such as to keep in step with the Spirit of God.  His Spirit will help our lives to become harmonious.  He will establish the lead by which we are to follow, like following the bass drum, which sets the pace for the band.  (The Pipe Major, who is directly responsible for the rhythm, would already have given instructions to the base drummer, whose responsibility it is, to maintain that cadence)

By not listening to the correct beat, we will have a different cadence  from the band and be off beat and off the tune and even out of step.  That is like straying off life's pathway.  The result is obvious.  We would become lost and have to reconsider our actions and readjust our lives.  "If a man imagines himself to be somebody, when he is nothing, he is deluding himself.  Each man should examine his own conduct for himself; then he can measure his achievement by comparing with himself and not with anyone else." (Galatians 6:3)

That is what we have to do when playing in the band.  If we are not in unison, then we must stop playing and listen.  Soon, we can continue to play, this time in unison.  However, with experience and practice, with confidence and expertise, we will maintain unity with those around us.

To tell if we are walking in step with the Spirit, evidence of the Spirit will dwell in our lives.  The Scripture tells us,, "If the Spirit is the source of our life let the Spirit also direct our course." (Galatians 5:25)  A verse to    contemplate is,

Oh may the life of the Savior flow through us,

Bearing rich fruit by the Spirit within,

And may each longing for selfish enjoyment

Be overcome lest it lead us to sin.

                                                                                      -D. J. DeHann