Sunday, February 16, 2020
“I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh.” (Galatians 5:16) The flesh as an enemy is a New Testament idea focusing the carnal, inbred tendencies of fallen humankind. These inclinations are the most immediate enemy of the believer who desires to live a life under the control, influence, and empowerment of the Holy Spirit.
The Word says the desire alone to do good is not enough to overcome our flesh (Romans 7:21). Rather, we are called to war against the flesh; to live our lives in a tug-of-war as our flesh urges indulgence and the Holy Spirit constrains us to righteousness.
Victory in this war is found in abiding in a right relationship with Jesus (Galatians 5:25), understanding that true strength is found in our weakness (2nd Corinthians 12:10), and continually submitting to the unction and urging of the Spirit (Ephesians 5:18). Victory comes as we take these practical steps, avoiding or overcoming the pull of our flesh.
The design of the Holy Spirit, as He develops in us fruit characteristic of “the divine nature” is to constrain us toward a life in which the tendencies of the flesh are both undesirable and unproductive. The word “walk” means to walk at large, especially as proof of ability … to be occupied with or engaged in.
Learning to “walk in the Spirit” will bring a gradual movement from mental rules and disciplines to an obedience rooted in the heart’s judgment and convictions.
You are love, Pastor Don
Cornerstone Worship Center 