Welcome to your daily devotional for September 19. Today, we’re going to talk about a battle we all face: the battle between our carnal desires and our spiritual nature. While the world tells us to follow our instincts and emotions, God’s Word calls us to a higher way of living—one led by the Spirit.
Daily Devotional for September 19
“But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” – Galatians 5:16 (ESV)
Led by the Spirit
Romans 8:8 declares that “those who are living the life of the flesh cannot please or satisfy God, or be acceptable to Him.” This doesn’t mean our bodies are inherently evil. It means that when our lives are guided solely by our natural instincts and desires—our “flesh”—we are unable to live in a way that truly honors God. It’s a life where our wants, feelings, and impulses are in control.
But God wants us to enjoy the good life, a life full of blessings. He promises that when we choose to walk in the Spirit, we will not be slaves to the desires of the flesh. The path to freedom and blessing is found in making a conscious choice today to be obedient to the leading of the Holy Spirit.
Mind, Will, and Emotion
Our personalities are made up of different parts. Our body and its emotions are powerful, with natural passions and instincts. However, God gave us a soul to control our body. A mature personality is one where our mind and will work in harmony to keep our emotions and passions in check, like a skilled rider guiding a powerful racehorse.
Your mind formulates the goal, establishing what is right and good. Your will then directs your entire being toward that goal. Your emotions and body are meant to follow their lead.
When we reverse this order and allow our emotions to dictate our decisions, we end up living a life that is out of control and ultimately unsatisfying. When we are led by the Spirit, however, our minds are renewed, our wills are strengthened, and our lives are brought into a beautiful harmony that pleases God and brings us peace.
Devotional for every day: Daily Devotional
Prayer for Today
Heavenly Father, thank you for your Holy Spirit who empowers me to live for you. Forgive me for the times I have let my emotions and fleshly desires take the lead. I choose today to walk by the Spirit. Help my mind to set its goals on what pleases you, and strengthen my will to follow your perfect plan. Amen.
To You
What is one decision you can make today to live by the Spirit instead of the flesh? Take a moment to pray and ask for God’s strength to follow through.
