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Walking by the Spirit

Posted 1/15/2025
Galatians 5:16-26
 This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law. Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.
If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.

Introduction

Brothers and sisters in Christ, today we gather to reflect on one of the most powerful passages in Paul’s letter to the Galatians. In Galatians 5:16-26, Paul presents a vivid contrast between the works of the flesh and the fruit of the Spirit. This passage not only challenges us to examine our lives but also invites us into a deeper walk with the Holy Spirit. Let us open our hearts and minds to receive the truth of God’s Word.

The Call to Walk by the Spirit (Verses 16-18)

Paul begins by urging us to “walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” This is a call to live in step with the Holy Spirit, allowing Him to guide our thoughts, actions, and decisions. The flesh, representing our sinful nature, is in constant conflict with the Spirit. However, when we surrender to the Spirit’s leading, we experience freedom from the power of sin.

Here, Paul reminds us that we cannot overcome the desires of the flesh through our strength. Instead, it is by yielding to the Spirit’s transformative power that we can live in victory. Are you walking by the Spirit today, or are you striving in your strength?

The Works of the Flesh (Verses 19-21)

Paul lists the works of the flesh, which include sexual immorality, impurity, idolatry, jealousy, fits of anger, and envy, among others. These behaviors are evidence of a life that is not surrendered to the Spirit. While this list may seem harsh, it serves as a mirror, reflecting areas where we may need to repent and turn back to God.

Paul’s warning is clear: those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. This is not about occasional failures, for we all stumble. Rather, it is about a lifestyle that persistently rejects God’s ways. Let us ask ourselves: are there areas in our lives where the works of the flesh are taking root?

The Fruit of the Spirit (Verses 22-23)

In contrast to the works of the flesh, Paul describes the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Notice that Paul uses the singular “fruit,” emphasizing that these qualities are a unified whole, produced by the Spirit in the life of a believer.

The fruit of the Spirit is not something we manufacture through effort. It is the natural outgrowth of abiding in Christ and allowing the Spirit to work within us. Jesus said in John 15:5, “I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit.” Are these fruits evident in your life?

Crucifying the Flesh (Verse 24)

Paul declares that those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. This imagery of crucifixion reminds us that our old, sinful nature has been put to death through Christ’s sacrifice. While the flesh may still attempt to assert itself, its power has been broken.

This calls for daily surrender, choosing to align ourselves with the Spirit rather than the flesh. It’s not about perfection but about progress, as we grow in Christlikeness.

Living and Keeping in Step with the Spirit (Verses 25-26)

Finally, Paul exhorts us to live by the Spirit and to keep in step with Him. This means actively seeking the Spirit’s guidance in every area of our lives. It’s a moment-by-moment dependence on God, marked by humility and a desire to glorify Him.

Paul also warns against becoming conceited, provoking one another, or envying one another. These attitudes disrupt the unity of the body of Christ. When we walk by the Spirit, we cultivate harmony and love within the church.

Conclusion

Galatians 5:16-26 challenges us to examine our walk with God. Are we yielding to the Spirit or gratifying the desires of the flesh? The good news is that the Holy Spirit empowers us to live lives that reflect God’s character. Through His guidance, we can bear fruit that brings glory to His name.

Let us commit ourselves anew to walking by the Spirit. As we do, may our lives shine as a testimony to the transforming power of God. Amen.