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The Battle Within: Flesh vs. Spirit

Writer's picture: timothyrsoutherntimothyrsouthern

So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. Galatians 5:16 (NIV)



“A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away…” You may recognize these words from the opening of the Star Wars saga, George Lucas’ story of the battle between forces of good and evil, light and darkness. Central to Star Wars is the Force, an energy field with a light side (peace, knowledge, harmony) and a dark side (anger, fear, aggression). The Jedi harness the light side, while the Sith draw power from the dark side.


Similarly, the apostle Paul describes a spiritual battle within each of us.


In Galatians 5:13-26, Paul contrasts the acts of the flesh with the fruit of the Spirit. This passage highlights the internal struggle every believer faces, akin to the battle between the light and dark sides of the Force in Star Wars.


Paul describes the acts of the flesh, which can be seen as the dark side of our nature, driven by sinful desires: sexual immorality, impurity, debauchery, idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions, envy, drunkenness, and orgies (Galatians 5:19-21). These actions lead us away from God’s desire for us.


In stark contrast to the acts of the flesh, the fruit of the Spirit includes love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). These qualities are the natural result of living in alignment with the Holy Spirit. As we pursue to live as Christ, we grow in the light.


Just as the Jedi and Sith represent the ongoing struggle between light and dark, believers experience a daily battle between the flesh and the Spirit. The flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh (Galatians 5:17). Each of us has free will to determine our destiny. We can choose to live in darkness, pursuing the temporary pleasures of the flesh, or accept the freedom found in Christ and live in the light.


To walk by the Spirit means to stay connected to God through prayer, scripture, and community. It involves surrendering our desires and allowing the Holy Spirit to produce His fruit in our lives. By doing so, we can overcome the acts of the flesh and live in the freedom Christ has given us.


Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of Your Holy Spirit. Help us to walk by the Spirit and not gratify the desires of the flesh. Fill us with Your love, joy, peace, and all the fruit of the Spirit. Guide our actions and decisions so that we may reflect Your light in this world. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.


Blessings,

Pastor Tim



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