A month back, we spoke about the fruit of the Spirit.
Today, it is time to talk about the works of the flesh.
If you want, turn to Galatians 5:19- 21 with me.
Notice that it talks about this before talking about the fruit of the Spirit.
The works of the flesh include:
sexual immortality
impurity
debauchery
idolatry
witchcraft
hatred
discord
jealousy
fits of rage
selfish ambition
dissensions
factions
envy
drunkenness
orgies
“and the like.” vs 21
I do not want to frighten you but did you catch the last sentence?
“I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.” — Galatians 5:21 NIV
Works of the flesh… why is it so easy to do things contrary to the Spirit?
We can probably scan the whole list and think we’re good… right?
Check it all off and go on with our lives.
Pause.
Reflect.
Search.
And if there is anything, confess it.
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Works of the flesh: things that we inherently lean toward that are contrary to God’s design for us.
“Flesh”: natural sin tendencies
The people who pursue lifestyles illustrated by the list above according to Galatians 5:19-21 are not saved. Or in other words, “that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.” — vs 21. It’s evident who they choose to follow.
Through our upbringing, society, school, and community, we are taught how to act and behave. Have you noticed that without the power of God, we remain self-centered? Even the good that we think we did before Jesus, is it even considered good? Good deeds are not good if they are not done in faith or love.
If you think about it, people believe in karma. As well as what goes around comes around. That frightens people. So they are on their best behavior. The thing is that they are driven by fear.
Friend, there is freedom in Jesus. At that time when you ask Jesus to come into your heart and you receive Him as Savior, the Holy Spirit moves! Through the Holy Spirit, we can make choices that are of the Spirit instead of the flesh!
But here’s the thing: the “flesh” doesn’t easily die. It’s a battle we all face. Paul said it best in Romans 7:21-23.
The works of the flesh are not always obvious according to the ones listed above. My apologies to burst the bubble but it can be found within the Christian ministry as well. Some people try to gain popularity and even self-worth under the image of serving Jesus. Do you think that pleasing God from selfish motivation is good? Not at all. Selfish motivation will eventually lead to burnout. The reason is that one was not doing it for God but for self.
We can avoid works of the flesh by submitting ourselves to the Holy Spirit. As well as allowing Him to direct every part of our lives.
Fruit will come. It needs to be planted first.
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How are you living?
How’s your heart been recently?
If you are not in a good place, what can you do to step out?
Who can you reach out to?
Help is on the way.
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Keep walking with Him. Stay on the narrow path.
13 You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh[a]; rather, serve one another humbly in love. 14 For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” — Galatians 5:13-14 NIV