Dying to the Flesh

Dying to the flesh means leaving behind the desires that draw us away from God and allowing the Holy Spirit to govern our lives.

Reflection

The Bible teaches that those who belong to Christ have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. This means the Christian life involves a transformation in which we stop being controlled by our impulses and learn to live according to God’s will. Dying to the flesh does not mean we no longer experience struggles or temptations, but that we no longer allow them to control our lives. It is a daily process of surrender in which we give the Lord our desires, thoughts, and attitudes so He can transform them. The Holy Spirit strengthens us to overcome what draws us away from God and helps us develop character like Christ’s. Every decision of obedience represents a spiritual victory and another step toward a life consecrated to the Lord.

Practical application

Reflect today on the areas where you still struggle with your own desires and consider what you need to surrender to God in order to walk more freely in the Spirit.

Prayer

Beloved Father, thank You because in Christ You have given me a new life and the opportunity to walk in freedom. Help me die each day to what draws me away from You and allow Your Spirit to govern my heart. Strengthen me when I face temptation and teach me to choose what pleases You. Remove from me every desire that is not aligned with Your will and form within me character that reflects Christ. May my life be a continual surrender to Your purposes. Amen.

To reflect on