In Romans 8:1-11, Paul constructs life in the flesh and life in the Spirit. Those who follow Jesus are freed from sin’s power and live by the Spirit’s life-giving presence.
Living according to the flesh or the Spirit represents two opposing ways of life. Following sinful, selfish desires that lead to spiritual death, or being guided by the Holy Spirit, results in life, peace, and fruitfulness. It’s a daily choice between self-satisfaction and surrendering to God’s will.
I remember a few weeks ago I was talking to the pastor’s wife about living according to the flesh and she said something that has stuck with me. “You can’t expect God’s blessings in your living in sin.
- Living according to the flesh (Self-Reliance and Sin)
Mindset: Focused on selfish desires, simple nature, and trying to live self dependently without God.
Actions: Characterized by “works of the flesh” such as impurity, hatred, jealousy, fits of anger, and selfish ambition.
Result: This path is hostile to God and leads to spiritual death.
Motivation: Trying to be good or secure through one’s own efforts. (self- righteousness)
- Living according to the Spirit (Surrender and Faith)
Mindset: Set on the things of the Spirit, relying on God’s grace and promises.
Actions: Characterized by “fruit of the Spirit” such as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
Result: This path leads to life, peace, and spiritual growth.
Motivation: Walking in dependence on God and allowing the Holy Spirit to work within, rather than relying on self-effort.
Key differences
- Source of power: The flesh relies on human strength, while the Spirit relies on God’s power.
- Daily action: The flesh acts upon selfish desires, while the Spirit leads to godly behavior.
- The Outcome: The flesh leads to inner disruption and distance from God, while the Spirit brings harmony and connection to God.
From Pity to Praise 