The War Within

Scripture: Galatians 5:16-26

This image from the Emperors New Groove movie is a picture that illustrates what often goes on inside of our heads. We are often faced with a choice to do what we think is right or wrong. It is as if these two choices both have their good points and it is often hard to choose.

But what really is going on inside of our heads? In Galatians 5:16-26, Paul tells us that those who believe in Jesus Christ have a sinful nature that wants to do evil, which is opposite of what the Holy Spirit wants to do (who lives in each Christian – 1 Cor. 3:16). Those who are not Christians do not have the Holy Spirit living in them, but they still face this type of decision making battle in their own way. They are at war with their conscious or what they personally believe is right and wrong.

It is often very evident when we make the choice to give into the sinful nature. Paul gives us a list of things in verses 19-21 that are “fruits” of this sinful nature. All of these things could be summarized by a few words such as brokenness, hurt, wrong, and evil. These choices don’t live up to the standard that we set for ourselves, let alone God’s standard!

But it is equally, if not more obvious, when we make the choice that follows the Spirit. Paul again lists these fruits in verses 22-23. All of these things could be summarized by the idea of loving others. This type of love can only be lived out through the power of God working in someone’s life.

We all make decisions every moment of every day. What’s a person to do? Follow a list of do’s and don’ts and try to choose the do’s every time? Good luck with that! That type of living is very difficult and defeating. Paul tells us in verses 24-25 that those who belong to Jesus need to realize that their sinful nature has been crucified (it’s dead!), and we can follow the Spirit’s leading in every part of our lives.

If you ask the question: Is _____ a sin? That’s probably the wrong question to ask. Instead, ask something like this: How does _________ glorify God? The more we hang around the sinful nature and sinful choices, the further we will get from glorifying God. Run to God. Follow Him and His Spirit, and the sinful nature will move further and further into the rear view mirror.

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