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| How to Overcome: The War Between the Flesh and the Spirit |
How to Overcome: The War Between the Flesh and the Spirit
Every Christian experiences an internal battle—the ongoing war between the desires of the flesh and the desires of the Spirit. This spiritual conflict is real, intense, and daily. The apostle Paul describes this struggle in Galatians 5:17:
“For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want.”
The Holy Spirit is actively at work in a believer’s life. So how do we overcome this war between the flesh and the Spirit?
1. Recognize the Nature of the Conflict
The flesh represents our sinful nature—our selfish desires, pride, lust, anger, and the pull toward sin. The Spirit, on the other hand, draws us toward holiness, righteousness, peace, love, and obedience to God.
Romans 7:23 explains,
“But I see another law at work in me, waging war against the law of my mind and making me a prisoner of the law of sin at work within me.”
Acknowledging this struggle is the first step toward victory. You’re not alone. Even Paul battled with his flesh. The key is not to deny the struggle but to understand that the power to overcome it comes from God—not our own strength.
2. Crucify the Flesh Daily
Paul instructs believers in Galatians 5:24,
“Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.”
Crucifying the flesh is not a one-time event. It is a daily surrender of our will to God. It means choosing, moment by moment, to deny sinful impulses and live by the Spirit. This doesn’t happen by accident—it requires intentional submission and ongoing spiritual discipline.
3. Walk by the Spirit
One of the most powerful strategies for overcoming the flesh is found in Galatians 5:16:
“So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.”
When we walk by the Spirit—through prayer, Scripture reading, worship, and obedience—we empower the Spirit’s influence in our lives. The fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22–23) begins to replace the fruit of the flesh. Instead of anger, we develop patience. Instead of lust, we gain self-control.
4. Renew Your Mind
Victory over the flesh starts in the mind. Romans 12:2 urges us to
“...be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”
Through God's Word, our thoughts, attitudes, and desires are reshaped. The more we fill our minds with truth, the more we align with God’s will—and the less room we give the flesh to control us.
5. Rely on God’s Grace, Not Your Willpower
Overcoming the war between flesh and Spirit is not about willpower; it’s about grace and faith. 2 Corinthians 12:9 reminds us:
“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”
When we feel weak, tempted, or discouraged, we lean into God’s strength. His Spirit gives us power to say no to sin and yes to righteousness.
6. Put on the Armor of God
Spiritual warfare demands spiritual armor. Ephesians 6:11 commands,
“Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.”
When we wear the armor of truth, righteousness, faith, salvation, and the Word of God, we are equipped to stand firm when the flesh tempts us to fall.
Victory is Possible
You can overcome the war between the flesh and the Spirit—but not alone. The good news is that Jesus has already won the ultimate victory. Romans 8:1–2 gives us this powerful promise:
“Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death.”
Let this truth anchor you. Through Jesus, you are empowered to walk in the Spirit, overcome temptation, and live in freedom.
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| How to Overcome: The War Between the Flesh and the Spirit |
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