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Allowing The Spirit Of God To Control Our Fleshy Desires Series
Contributed by Shaila Touchton on Sep 24, 2025 (message contributor)
Summary: As believers, we are called to live a life controlled by the Spirit of God, rather than our fleshy desires.
As believers, we are called to live a life controlled by the Spirit of God, rather than our fleshy desires. The Bible teaches us that our sinful nature is in constant conflict with the Spirit, and that we must choose to surrender to God's control.
The Conflict Between Flesh and Spirit
- Galatians 5:16-17: "So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. 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 do not do what you want."
- Romans 8:7-8: "The mind governed by the flesh is hostile to God; it does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so. Those who are in the realm of the flesh cannot please God."
Surrendering to the Spirit's Control
To allow the Spirit of God to control our fleshy desires, we must:
- Romans 8:13: "For if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live."
- Galatians 5:22-23: "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law."
Practical Steps
1. Pray for self-control: Ask God to help you control your desires and emotions.
2. Study God's Word: Learn what the Bible says about living a Spirit-controlled life.
3. Seek accountability: Surround yourself with people who will encourage and support you in your walk with God.
4. Practice obedience: Make conscious choices to obey God's commands and live according to His will.
Allowing the Spirit of God to control our fleshy desires requires a deliberate choice to surrender to God's control. By studying God's Word, praying for self-control, seeking accountability, and practicing obedience, we can live a life that honors God and reflects the fruit of the Spirit.