By Pastor Dr. Aggrey Soyekwo
Galatians 5:16-17 "So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature. For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want." - NIV
Within every human being is a struggle between right and wrong, good and bad. This struggle is between the sinful nature influenced by the devil, and the godly nature of the Holy Spirit seeking to lead us to the God to serve and worship Him. It’s a struggle between godly and demonic forces. Whatever we outwardly do or say in response to this internal struggle shows which side has taken the day.
Paul says we can overcome the influence of the sinful nature which shows in the desires and works of the flesh (5:19-21), by living in the Spirit. This means allowing the leading and enabling of the Holy Spirit, Whose result shows up in the fruit of the Spirit (5:22-23). Those who live to please the sinful nature will not inherit the kingdom of God.
Somehow, we will always get to know the right or wrong things to do or avoid in this struggle. The flesh is weak and susceptible to fail even with such knowledge. The Holy Spirit was given to help us overcome these weaknesses.
We can all overcome in this battle because Jesus in us already overcame. God already provided for whatever is needed to overcome. Our part is to obediently yield and corporate with the Holy Spirit and surely victory will be ours to God’s glory.
John 16.33 "…But take heart! I have overcome the world." Romans 8:26 "In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness…"
Shalom children of God.