It is about an important distinction

NORSK
I am going to write more about the triune image, but first I want to share some thoughts about an important distinction. Many years ago, to be exact, during the autumn of 1978, I was acquainted with an elderly soldier who was eager to mentor young officers. He has long gone to be with the Lord, but I will never forget his assertion: “You will never experience spiritual growth, least you manage to distinguish between soul and spirit!”.

I cannot underwrite his assertion, but I believe it is important to be aware of the fact of soul and spirit not being the same thing. It is interesting to notice that the author of the letter to the Hebrews, who by the way was very focused on holiness, also writes about this division. May be he also regarded it as important for being able to grasp an aspect of the mystery of holiness?

For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account.
Hebr 4:12-13

The soul is swiftly stirred by the senses of the body, like e.g. what I see, smell, feel or hear. There is nothing wrong in this, but they are also impacts copied by this world to provoke the same kind of emotions. Therefore, it is important not to be fooled by the moods of the soul in a meeting or in  human excitement. So what is causing the moods - the soul or the spirit?

To be able to distinguish is important because it is that which is of the spirit that builds up over time, while that which is of the soul can be a volatile mood.

Tomorrow comes another example of “my image” that hopefully will contribute to enhance the understanding of the difference between soul and spirit – so hang on!.

‘Manna’ for today:

There is difference of soul and spirit!