“For those who are living according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh [which gratify the body], but those who are living according to the Spirit, [set their minds on] the things of the Spirit [His will and purpose]. 6Now the mind of the flesh is death [both now and forever–because it pursues sin]; but the mind of the Spirit is life and peace [the spiritual well-being that comes from walking with God–both now and forever]; 7the mind of the flesh [with its sinful pursuits] is actively hostile to God. It does not submit itself to God’s law, since it cannot, 8and those who are in the flesh [living a life that caters to sinful appetites and impulses] cannot please God.” Romans 8:5-8 AMP
We read today that the battle we face in obeying the voice of God takes place in our mind. Everything in life begins with a thought. Our minds are always exploring and asking questions that help us navigate the course of life. The Apostle tells us that there are two forces at work in our mind: the mind of the flesh and the mind of the Spirit. Take notice of the two opposite goals of those battles. The mind of the flesh pursues sin and the mind of the Spirit pursues the things of God. Our fleshly nature and desires is what got us into this mess to begin with! Notice the word set in the 5th verse. It is the Greek word meaning the diaphragm. The diaphragm is one of the most important organs to keep us alive. Without a functioning diaphragm you would not be able to breathe. In a sense, it keeps you alive. The comparison is that if your mind is set on the flesh, it will keep the activity of sin alive! The end of that path is death and destruction. We are, however, given a second alternative, the mind of the Spirit.
I love the outcome of pursuing the mind of the Spirit: “but the mind of the Spirit is life and peace [the spiritual well-being that comes from walking with God–both now and forever” Who in their right mind would not want peace in the midst of this crazy world! We are told that to receive that gift we must “walk with God.” That means following the direction of the Holy Spirit. Look at verse 9 of the same chapter.
“However, you are not [living] in the flesh [controlled by the sinful nature] but in the Spirit, if in fact the Spirit of God lives in you [directing and guiding you]. But if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Him [and is not a child of God].” Romans 8:9 AMP
Do you see it? The Holy Spirit is directing us and guiding us to walk with God. That means we must be attentive and responsive to His voice! Jesus told His disciples that,
“I am the Good Shepherd, and I know [without any doubt those who are] My own and My own know Me [and have a deep, personal relationship with Me]—” John 10:14 AMP
Relationship demand s communication. It is the bedrock of a solid relationship. I encourage you to seek Him today and tune your ear to the voice of the Holy Spirit. Have a blesses day, Pastor Ken