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How to Win the War Within: Overcoming the Flesh with the Spirit

 

How to Win the War Within: Overcoming the Flesh with the Spirit (Galatians 5:16-17)    

Tug-of-war rope symbolizing internal conflict   

 

    There’s a part of you that doesn’t want to heal, grow, forgive, or evolve. It resists the transformation God desires for your life. That part of you, the flesh is not outside; it’s within. Just as the human body retains some fat regardless of how healthy we are, our spiritual walk also includes a part of us that resists the Spirit.

 

"So, I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh."  Galatians 5:16

 

   You are not battling against people, situations, or even your past. The greatest war is within. It’s the part of you that craves instant gratification and rebels against the slow, faithful process of transformation. It’s the part that wants everything, now, even if you’re not ready for it spiritually. Like wanting microwave results for a crockpot purpose, the flesh despises waiting. But God’s work in you is not instant. It’s ongoing, deliberate, and deeply rooted in grace. “Lord, I believe; help my unbelief.” That cry acknowledges the war inside and invites God into the battle. Paul explains in Galatians 5:17 that the flesh and the Spirit are in constant opposition. Spiritual practices prayer, worship, fasting, studying the Word aren’t religious routines. They are your soul’s daily exercise, keeping that “spiritual fat” in check.                                                            

   You won't eliminate the flesh completely. As long as you're human, the flesh will exist. But you can limit its control. You can choose to walk in the Spirit, feeding your soul the right things and practicing disciplines that align you with God's will. There’s a part of you that’s addicted to stimulation scrolling endlessly, craving entertainment, seeking validation. That part is real, and it must be disciplined. There’s also a part that only wants joy and sunshine but refuses to grow through rain and pain. But you need both. It’s the tension between joy and sorrow that deepens your faith and strengthens your roots. You may want nonstop pleasure, but life in Christ involves sacrifice, pruning, and pressing. The flesh says, “Run from discomfort.” The Spirit says, “Grow through it.”

 

"Be still and know that I am God."  Psalm 46:10

 

   God is not done with you. He who began a good work in you is faithful to complete it (Philippians 1:6). The war within is real but so is the victory when you walk in the Spirit.


📖 Reflection: What part of your flesh are you currently wrestling with, and how can you surrender it to the Spirit today?

💡 Action Step: Choose one spiritual discipline (prayer, fasting, study, or silence) to practice daily this week to strengthen your spirit.

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