As Christians we often read, claim, and memorize verses like Galatians 5:22-26, but we rarely reflect on verses 17-21. Why you ask, well it’s because we’re Christians, we received Christ as our Savior and we often think we don’t need to focus on those dirty verses about the works of the flesh. Well, NEWSFLASH! We do need to reflect on those verses, the entirety of scripture is for our reproof, edification and training. Because we often are guilty of those nasty things listed in verses 20&21. We need to examine our lives honestly and repent when and where necessary, so that we will produce the Fruit of the Spirit. So, with reflection reproof, repentance, and edification in mind spend a a couple of days on these nine verses.
May the peace of God be with you in your daily life and may His blessings overtake you and cause an abundant overflow in you house that you may bless others.
Galatians 5:17-26
Amplified Bible (AMP)
517 For the desires of the flesh are opposed to the [Holy] Spirit, and the [desires of the] Spirit are opposed to the flesh (godless human nature); for these are antagonistic to each other [continually withstanding and in conflict with each other], so that you are not free but are prevented from doing what you desire to do.
18 But if you are guided (led) by the [Holy] Spirit, you are not subject to the Law.
19 Now the doings (practices) of the flesh are clear (obvious): they are immorality, impurity, indecency,
20 Idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, anger (ill temper), selfishness, divisions (dissensions), party spirit (factions, sects with peculiar opinions, heresies),
21 Envy, drunkenness, carousing, and the like. I warn you beforehand, just as I did previously, that those who do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.
22 But the fruit of the [Holy] Spirit [the work which His presence within accomplishes] is love, joy (gladness), peace, patience (an even temper, forbearance), kindness, goodness (benevolence), faithfulness,
23 Gentleness (meekness, humility), self-control (self-restraint, continence). Against such things there is no law [[f]that can bring a charge].
24 And those who belong to Christ Jesus (the Messiah) have crucified the flesh (the godless human nature) with its passions and appetites and desires.
25 If we live by the [Holy] Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit. [If by the Holy Spirit [g]we have our life in God, let us go forward [h]walking in line, our conduct controlled by the Spirit.]
26 Let us not become vainglorious and self-conceited, competitive and challenging and provoking and irritating to one another, envying and being jealous of one another.
Thoughts on Biblical Christianity in the Post Modern World 