Over the next two days, we are going to talk about the “works of the flesh” and the “fruit of the spirit.” One (the works) is the result of what we do, and one (the fruit) is the result of what is being produced within us. We spend time today talking about what it means when Paul speaks of “the flesh” and the difference between our sin nature and the sins that we commit. How does it all fit together in who we are?

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Good morning. It’s great to be with you on this Monday. I hope you had a wonderful weekend. I’m looking forward to a calm week here at church. We have just a couple of days before Lent begins, with Mardi Gras tomorrow and Ash Wednesday following. So enjoy the last bit of indulgence before the Lenten season starts!

Today and tomorrow, we’ll be looking at two contrasting aspects of life—the works of the flesh and the fruit of the Spirit. The difference in wording is important. The works of the flesh are things we produce through our sinful nature, while the fruit of the Spirit is something that is grown in us by God. One is a result of our own actions, and the other is a result of God’s work in us.

First, let’s talk about what Paul means by “the flesh.” He’s not referring to our physical bodies, but to our sinful nature—the natural inclination we all have toward sin. This is the part of us that resists God, that pulls us toward selfishness and disobedience. Theologically, we call this original sin—the brokenness we inherit as human beings.

Because of this sinful nature, our desires are often opposed to what God desires. Paul lists examples of the “works of the flesh” that result from this sinful nature—things like jealousy, anger, division, and impurity. These are actions that come from our brokenness.

Paul often has a way of listing sins that we are quick to condemn in others, but then sneaking in the ones we struggle with ourselves. It’s easy to call out “big” sins like fornication and idolatry, but then he also lists things like jealousy, anger, and quarrels—things we all wrestle with. His point is clear: sin separates us from God, no matter what form it takes.

So, what do we do? Paul tells us to live by the Spirit and not give in to the desires of the flesh. If we continually give in to sin, it becomes insatiable—we will never be satisfied. Sin will always demand more from us. That’s why we need to be aware of our sinful nature and how it leads us into destructive behaviors.

The good news is that the Spirit of God gives us another way. Tomorrow, we’ll talk about the fruit of the Spirit—the qualities that God produces in us when we walk with Him. But before we can receive that fruit, we need to recognize the reality of sin and our need for God’s grace.

So today, take time to examine your heart. Are there areas where your sinful nature is leading you away from God? Are there patterns of behavior that need to change? The first step to transformation is awareness.

Thanks for being with me today. Tomorrow, we’ll dive into the fruit of the Spirit and what it means to live a life led by God. Have a great day!