GALATIANS 5:16-26
GALATIANS 5:16-26
New International Version
16 So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. 17 For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want. 18 But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law.
19 The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; 20 idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions 21 and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.
22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. 26 Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.
GALATIANS 5:24
Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.
REFLECTION
It can be easy to read through the acts of the flesh that are listed in this passage and gloss over some that might feel tame in comparison to others. Notice, though, that they are not in order from minor sins to major sins. The truth is that all sin grieves the heart of God. If we fall into a thought pattern where some sins are “permissible,” then, eventually, all will be, and we will be in a very rough spot.
RESPONSE
Are there things in your heart, such as jealousy or hatred, that have crept in?
As you read through the fruit of the Spirit, spend a few moments in prayer asking God what area He wants to grow you in today.
