Understanding the Flesh vs. the Spirit
There’s a poem I wrote titled The Flesh is a Mess. It’s a little fresh, just about two weeks old. The title comes from Elder Taylor, my prayer leader, who inspires the idea that our flesh—our human tendencies—can be quite messy (Matthew 26:41). To be honest, the flesh can lead you astray if you let it. But here’s the good news: You are not only flesh; you are spirit, too, and you have a soul. Your spirit, when anchored in God, can guide you to manifest the fruit of the spirit.
The Fruit of the Spirit
I want to share with you what Galatians 5:22-23 says about the Fruit of the Spirit, which includes love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Let’s explore how you can cultivate each in your life.
Love: Love is the foundation of everything. God is love (1 John 4:8). Remember a time when you felt deeply loved? That’s a glimpse of how God loves you with unconditional love. Loving yourself means strongly honoring your heart, soul, and mind just as God loves you.
Joy: Joy is that deep-seated happiness that persists even when life is challenging because it’s rooted in knowing Jesus loves you. It’s like having a little sunshine tucked away inside your heart.
Peace: Oh, how we all crave peace! The peace from Jesus surpasses all understanding and guards your heart and mind (Philippians 4:7). It’s a calm that you carry within, no matter where you are or what happens.
Patience: Patience is steady during challenging waiting periods in life. Imagine driving patiently, understanding everyone has battles you might not see. This patience translates into compassion.
Kindness and Goodness: Simple acts of kindness can transform someone’s day. Whether it’s a smile or a helping hand, these moments spread God’s goodness, uplifting spirits one kind act after another.
Faithfulness: Think of faithfulness as loyalty to what’s right, sticking with it even when things are hard. Commit to God and others, forming strong bonds that withstand the test of time.
Gentleness: Gentleness means responding with grace in all interactions. I must admit, it’s something I had to learn, especially in parenting. But through gentle actions, my relationship with my children truly flourished.
Self-Control: Lastly, self-control reminds you of your power to choose. Instead of trying to control others, control yourself. Align your actions with God’s will, honoring your divine destiny.
Infusing Your Spirit with the Divine
When you embrace these fruits of the spirit, you infuse your spirit with God’s love, joy, and peace, becoming like a beautifully blended drink of lemons, oranges, and strawberries that’s refreshing and invigorating. You gain strength over the flesh, stepping into a life that reflects the divine in everyday actions.
In your walk with Christ, remember these qualities. They’re already within you, waiting to be nurtured and grown. Keep drawing near, purifying your heart, and enjoying the glorious goodness that flows from being close to God.
God Bless, Shirah Chante, Relationship Coach
