In Galatians 5.16-26, Paul presents us with two opposing perspectives on how we can live our lives. They are…
1) walking in the Spirit
2) fulfilling the lust of the flesh (v. 16).
Walking in the Spirit is being led by the Spirit (v. 18), bearing fruits of the Spirit (vv. 22,23), and living in the Spirit (v. 24).
Fulfilling the lust of the flesh is giving in to the works of the flesh (vv. 19-21a), practicing them in daily life (v. 21b) and excluding ourselves from the kingdom of God (v. 21c).
What Paul is revealing to us is two, very different, guiding influences in life that can determine how we think, what we do, and even shape our lives for eternity. By the way, it is not possible to live by both influences and be right with God. Paul says, in verse 17, that “the flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; and these are contrary to one another.”
It seems to me that our perspective on life is often shown when we have to make critical decisions. Consider the following…
- whether we dress modestly or immodestly will depend on our perspective on life (guided by the Spirit or fulfillment of the lust of the flesh).
- Whether we are kind or rude to others is determined by our perspective on life (a biblical verses a worldly perspective).
- Whether we choose to commit a sin or avoid it is decided by the guiding influence in our lives (spiritual or worldly guidance).
We have a decision to make on a daily basis! What is it? Live a life guided by the Holy Spirit, not by ANY OTHER guiding influence in life! Really, we actually made that decision at baptism. We simply live every day either faithful to our decision or unfaithful to it.
Think about it!
Kevin Williams
