The Higher Law of the Spirit of Life
For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death (Rom. 8:2 KJV)
Have you ever wondered why invisible forces seem to govern your life, influencing emotions, decisions, and outcomes? Life operates under unseen principles—spiritual laws that shape our experiences. Romans 8:2 highlights two such laws: the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus and the law of sin and death. These opposing forces are always at work, and understanding their power is key to living in freedom and victory.
First, let’s define “law” in this context. The ESV Bible notes explain that “law” here means a governing principle. Practically, it refers to a dynamic power that influences life, not a codified set of rules like the Mosaic Law.
Think about this: there’s always a power shaping how you feel, think, speak, or act. This invisible force—this governing law—determines outcomes. Paul identifies two such laws: the law of sin and death and the law of the Spirit of life. Each is characterized by its outcomes: death or life.
Genesis 3 provides the clearest example of the law of sin and death. Before the fall, Adam didn’t struggle with sin, fear, sickness, or poverty. These results stem from an invisible yet powerful force that entered the world after sin: the law of sin and death. This law governs human nature, producing fear, turmoil, disease, and spiritual separation from God—ultimately leading to eternal death. It compels sin, which results in spiritual and eternal death. A terrible, unrelenting law.
Thank God for Jesus, who introduced a superior law defined by life and the Spirit. This law, empowered by the Holy Spirit, brings life to those dead in sin. When a sinner hears the Gospel and believes in Jesus, this law activates, transforming them from death—life without God—into abundant life. This power is universal; it works in all who believe.
Here’s the best part: when these two laws clash, the higher law always prevails. The law of the Spirit of life in Christ overcomes the law of sin and death. Salvation exemplifies this. A sinner, once bound by sin and death, hears the Gospel, activates the Spirit of life, and is instantly transformed into a child of God, free from sin’s grip.
This victory extends beyond salvation. Depression, for instance, represents emotional death. When it encounters the Spirit of life, it is replaced with joy. Likewise, sickness (a form of death) is overcome by health (life). There is a place in God where the Spirit of life lifts us above sin and death in every area of life. Our responsibility is to learn how to dwell in that realm, sphere or place daily.
May the Lord guide you into this realm daily. May His Spirit bring life and freedom to every part of your being.
Meditate
What area of your life feels dominated by the law of sin and death? Reflect on how the law of the Spirit of life can set you free in that specific area.
Act on the Word
Identify one struggle you’re facing today. Declare Romans 8:2 over it, inviting the Spirit of life to bring transformation.
Pray
Father, thank You for the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus that sets me free from sin and death. Help me to live in this freedom daily, experiencing Your life in every area. Amen.
Recommended Read
- What is Spiritual Death?
- What is Eternal Life
- The Spiritual Snake Line
- How to Yield to the Holy Spirit
- How to walk in the Spirit
- View all Devotionals
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