Fighting the Flesh

The mind governed by the flesh is hostile to God; it does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do
so. Those who are in the realm of the flesh cannot please God.
Romans 8:7,8

The Bible teaches a rather uncomfortable truth. It says that you and I are sinners. On this side
of heaven, we’ll continue to struggle with our sinful flesh. It’s a given. But with the Holy Spirit’s
power, we are daily called to engage in a holy battle. And with his help, we will be victorious.

But if we throw in the towel and give in to our sin without a fight, we’re encouraging our sinful
flesh and mind to continually disobey God’s good commands. And it’s addictive. Sin is a powerful
and deadly drug that corrupts our minds and continually lies to us. When we allow our flesh to
govern our mind, it eventually becomes “hostile to God.” Without the Spirit’s help, our mind “does
not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so.” In summary, Paul tells us, “Those who are in the realm
of the flesh cannot please God,” and eternal condemnation will be the inevitable outcome.

But Jesus can help us, and he does. Perfectly. He has conquered our sin and crushed our
condemnation forever. Trust him!

Prayer:
Dear Jesus, give me your strength to fight my flesh. Amen.