The Fruits of the Flesh and the Fruits of the Spirit

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In Galatians 5:19-21, the Apostle Paul outlines the “works of the flesh” that are contrary to a life led by the Spirit. These actions and attitudes arise when we prioritize our sinful desires over God’s will. Understanding these behaviors can help Christians recognize and resist them, choosing instead to walk in the Spirit and bear His fruit.

The Works of the Flesh

Paul lists the following as the works of the flesh:

1. Adultery and Lust - Violations of the sanctity of marriage and purity of thought.

Matthew 5:28: "But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart."



2. Fornication and Uncleanness - Sexual immorality and impurity in thoughts, words, and deeds.

Ephesians 5:3: "But sexual immorality and all impurity or covetousness must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints."



3. Lasciviousness - Excessive indulgence in sensual pleasures.

Jude 1:4: "...ungodly persons who turn the grace of our God into licentiousness and deny our only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ."



4. Idolatry and Witchcraft - Worshiping false gods or engaging in occult practices.

1 Corinthians 10:14: "Therefore, my beloved, flee from idolatry."

Deuteronomy 18:10-12: "Let no one be found among you who...practices divination or sorcery, interprets omens, engages in witchcraft."



5. Hatred, Variance, and Wrath - Bitterness, quarreling, and uncontrolled anger.

Ephesians 4:31: "Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice."



6. Strife, Seditions, and Heresies - Divisions and false teachings.

Romans 16:17: "I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them."



7. Envyings and Murders - Jealousy and the taking of life.

Proverbs 14:30: "A tranquil heart gives life to the flesh, but envy makes the bones rot."



8. Drunkenness and Revelries - Overindulgence in alcohol and wild parties.

Ephesians 5:18: "Do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit."




The Fruit of the Spirit

In contrast to the works of the flesh, Paul describes the fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5:22-23 as the evidence of a life transformed by God. These virtues reflect Christ’s character and guide believers to live righteously:

1. Love - Selfless and unconditional care for others (1 Corinthians 13:4-7).


2. Joy - Deep, abiding gladness rooted in God’s promises (Psalm 16:11).


3. Peace - Tranquility and harmony with God and others (Philippians 4:7).


4. Patience - Enduring difficult situations without complaint (Colossians 3:12).


5. Kindness - Compassion and generosity toward others (Ephesians 4:32).


6. Goodness - Moral integrity and uprightness (Romans 12:9).


7. Faithfulness - Steadfast trustworthiness and loyalty to God (Lamentations 3:22-23).


8. Gentleness - Humility and consideration in dealing with others (Philippians 4:5).


9. Self-Control - Mastery over one’s desires and actions (Titus 2:11-12).



The Call to Walk in the Spirit

Paul urges believers to walk in the Spirit so they will not gratify the desires of the flesh:

Galatians 5:16: "Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh."

Romans 8:5: "For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit."


Walking in the Spirit requires daily submission to God, prayer, and the renewal of the mind through His Word (Romans 12:2). It is not achieved by human effort but by yielding to the Holy Spirit’s guidance.

 
Overcoming the Flesh

1. Confession and Repentance - Admit sin and turn away from it (1 John 1:9).


2. Prayer and Fasting - Seek God’s strength to overcome temptation (Matthew 26:41).


3. Accountability - Surround yourself with godly influences (Proverbs 27:17).


4. Meditation on Scripture - Fill your heart and mind with God’s truth (Psalm 119:11).



By focusing on the fruit of the Spirit, Christians can experience the abundant life God promises while being a light to the world. As we grow in the Spirit, the works of the flesh diminish, and the character of Christ is revealed in us.

May we choose daily to reject the flesh and live in the Spirit, glorifying God in all we do.


Daby Y
07/12/2024

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