In what ways can we identify if our mindset is flesh or Spirit-led? Framing Romans 8:5 “For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit.” Two Distinct Operating Systems • Flesh: the fallen, self-centered nature inherited from Adam (Romans 7:18). • Spirit: the indwelling Holy Spirit who regenerates and governs every believer (Romans 8:9). Signs a Mindset Is Flesh-Driven • Preoccupation with temporal gratification—food, pleasure, status, money (Philippians 3:19; 1 John 2:16). • Regular eruptions of the works of the flesh—“sexual immorality, impurity, debauchery, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, discord…” (Galatians 5:19-21). • Rationalizing sin or calling evil good (Isaiah 5:20). • Bitterness, envy, and selfish ambition that sow disorder (James 3:14-16). • Little appetite for Scripture, prayer, or fellowship (Hebrews 10:25). • Reluctance to submit to God’s law—“the mind of the flesh is hostile toward God” (Romans 8:7). Signs a Mindset Is Spirit-Led • Consistent desire to please Christ rather than self (2 Corinthians 5:9). • Evidence of the fruit of the Spirit—“love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control” (Galatians 5:22-23). • Setting the affections “on things above, not on earthly things” (Colossians 3:1-2). • Quick repentance when sin is exposed (1 John 1:9). • Peace that guards heart and mind (Philippians 4:6-7). • Readiness to obey God’s promptings—“For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God” (Romans 8:14). A Simple Word-Based Self-Check • What dominates my thoughts during unguarded moments—eternal realities or immediate cravings? • Are my choices consistently aligning with Scripture even when inconvenient? • Do I detect growing Christ-likeness witnessed by those closest to me (Matthew 7:17-20)? • Is there a conscious dependence on the Spirit rather than sheer willpower (Galatians 3:3)? Habits That Keep the Mind Spirit-Tuned • Daily immersion in Scripture (Psalm 1:2; Colossians 3:16). • Ongoing prayer and gratitude (1 Thessalonians 5:17-18). • Regular confession and cleansing (Proverbs 28:13; 1 John 1:9). • Worship and mutual encouragement with other believers (Ephesians 5:18-19; Hebrews 3:13). • Purposeful fasting from influences that feed the flesh (Romans 13:14). Encouraging Truths to Anchor Us • “There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” (Romans 8:1). • The Spirit already dwells within every believer (Romans 8:9). • God is committed to conforming us to Christ (Romans 8:29). • Our role: walk by the Spirit, and we “will not gratify the desires of the flesh” (Galatians 5:16). |
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