The Works of the Flesh
Silence and stillness before God (2 minutes)
Scripture reading
Scripture reading:
Galatians 5:19–21a
The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like.
Devotional
Paul does not leave the “flesh” vague. He names it clearly. The works of the flesh are obvious when self rules, these fruits appear. They range from sexual sins to religious distortions, from relational breakdowns to destructive indulgence.
This list is not exhaustive, but representative. It shows that the flesh touches every area of life: our bodies, our worship, our relationships, and our communities. Left unchecked, the flesh produces chaos.
Paul’s honesty is sobering. We may want to downplay sin, but he calls it out for what it is. The Spirit frees us not only from the law but from the grip of these destructive patterns. The contrast is sharp: the works of the flesh are many, divisive, and damaging; the fruit of the Spirit is singular, beautiful, and life-giving.
Question to consider
As you read Paul’s list, which “works of the flesh” do you see most at work in your world, or in yourself?
Prayer
Lord, open my eyes to the works of the flesh. Where they are present in me, forgive me and free me. Produce instead the fruit of your Spirit in my life.
Conclude with silence (2 minutes)
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