How can we identify "natural instincts" in our daily Christian walk? Key Verse: Jude 1:19 “These are the ones who cause divisions, who are worldly and devoid of the Spirit.” What Scripture Means by “Natural Instincts” • Jude links “natural instincts” to being “worldly” or “unspiritual.” • It describes impulses that flow from fallen human nature rather than from the Holy Spirit (cf. 1 Corinthians 2:14). • Such instincts inevitably lead to division, strife, and drifting from gospel truth. Why Identifying Them Matters • Romans 8:7-8 warns that a flesh-dominated mind “cannot please God.” • Galatians 5:16-17 shows a tug-of-war: flesh versus Spirit; whichever we feed gains strength. • Unchecked natural instincts sap joy, damage relationships, and dull spiritual sensitivity. Common Signs of Natural Instincts in Daily Life 1. Relational Friction – Quickness to take offense, harbor resentment, or gossip (James 3:14-16). 2. Self-Centered Priority Setting – Decisions driven chiefly by comfort, convenience, or image (Philippians 2:3-4). 3. Impulsive Gratification – Habitual yielding to appetites—food, screen time, spending—without prayerful restraint (Proverbs 25:28). 4. Prideful Comparison – Measuring worth by possessions, success, or recognition (1 John 2:16-17). 5. Resistance to God’s Word – Explaining away clear commands or delaying obedience (James 1:22). 6. Spiritual Indifference – Dullness toward worship, Scripture, and fellowship while energetic for lesser pursuits (Revelation 2:4). Contrasting Natural Instincts with the Spirit’s Leading Natural Instincts: • Me-first, short-sighted, reactionary • Stir distrust and division • Leave a residue of guilt or emptiness Spirit’s Leading (Galatians 5:22-23): • Christ-centered, eternity-minded, thoughtful • Produces unity and peace • Leaves a trail of love, joy, and freedom Practical Steps to Discern and Defeat Natural Instincts • Daily Scripture Intake – lets truth expose hidden motives (Hebrews 4:12). • Conscious Surrender – begin each day handing desires to the Lord (Romans 12:1-2). • Spirit-Dependence in Real Time – quick silent prayers before replies, purchases, and plans (Nehemiah 2:4). • Accountability – invite mature believers to speak in when attitudes drift (Hebrews 3:13). • Replace, Don’t Merely Resist – pursue Spirit-filled alternatives: service instead of selfishness, gratitude instead of complaint (Ephesians 4:22-24). Encouragement for the Journey Natural instincts lose power as we keep in step with the Spirit. “If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit.” (Galatians 5:25) Staying alert, rooted in Scripture, and surrendered to Christ transforms worldly impulses into opportunities for growth and witness. |
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