Galatians 5:17
17For the sinful nature desires what is contrary
to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature.
They are in conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you
want.
The apostle Paul was having a very frank conversation with the churches
of Galatia about living life in the Spirit as opposed to living life in
the sinful nature or "flesh". They are opposites or opposing views. The
same way God represents good and Satan represents evil. It is not an
easy road to travel and ALL of us have messed up somewhere along the
way. Some may not have been caught yet with visible consequences while
others have. Here's the deal. Your spirit will always want opposite of
your flesh if you are a follower of Christ. The key is letting the Holy
Spirit dominate your life and your flesh so that each time you attempt
to go the way of the flesh, the Holy Spirit's convicting power will
cause you to think twice and repent. Spending more time with the Lord,
in prayer, listening, reading and studying His word and learning to
trust Him are ways to get you there. Okay, so your flesh issues may not
be with idolatry, witchcraft, sexual immorality, drunkenness, etc. but
it could be with words, it could be with your thoughts, it could even be
with jealousy, envy, hatred, quick temper, gossip, overeating or
whatever. If you are actively working in your faith, then it is a
process. THANK YOU JESUS FOR GRACE AND MERCY!! It doesn't help though
if you "make provision for the flesh." Or shall we say, set yourself up
knowing there's potential for a situation that is not of the Holy Spirit
to occur, then you are truly stirring a recipe for disaster. But if you
really desire to live by the Holy Spirit, then the Lord will create a
way out as said in 1Corinthians 10:13. Just remember to take the way out
when you see the open door.
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