Walk by the spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. – Galatians 5:16
Today’s verse expresses a comforting thought. When you walk after the Spirit, doing what pleases Him, you will steer clear of gratifying the desires of the flesh, those things that offend the Lord and are harmful to you. In other words, if you are busy doing the things you are supposed to do, you will not have time to do the things that displease the Father.
Following after the Spirit is a learning progression with many ups and downs. Ingrained habits or addictions can cause great difficulty when walking after the Spirit. Some people are delivered instantly from habits like drugs or smoking, while others struggle through a long process of recovery. Emotions like anger, impatience, and pride may take time to unlearn and overcome. It involves working “out your own salvation with fear and trembling” (Philippians 2:12). The work is a partnership. “For it is God who works in you, both to will and work for His good pleasure” (Philippians 2:13).
The process begins with prayer and Bible study. Paul told the church in Rome, “Do not be conformed to this world but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect” (Romans 12:2).
Be attentive to the Spirit’s guidance and timing in your growing pains. He may be concerned more with your attitude than a particular action.
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