The word dysfunctional is often used to describe individuals, families, relationships, organizations, and even governments. While functional means its in proper working order, dysfunctional is the oppositeits broken, not working properly, unable to do what it was designed to do.
In his letter to the Romans, the apostle Paul begins by describing a spiritually dysfunctional humanity (1:1832). We are all part of that rebellious company: All have turned away, they have together become worthless; there is no one who does good, not even one. . . . For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (3:12, 23).
The good news is that all are justified freely by [Gods] grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus . . . to be received by faith (vv. 2425). When we invite Christ into our lives and accept Gods offer of forgiveness and new life, we are on the path to becoming the person He created us to be. We dont immediately become perfect, but we no longer have to remain broken and dysfunctional.
Through the Holy Spirit we receive daily strength to honor God in what we say and do and to put off [our] old self . . . to be made new in the attitude of [our] minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness (Eph. 4:2224).
Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control are the fruit the Spirit grows in our lives because we belong to Christ Jesus (Gal. 5:2224). In what area can you ask the Spirit to help you grow?