May 7
Walk in
the Spirit
Galatians 5:16
So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.
Daily Steps
When the daily mindset is at war between what you know you should do and what you feel like doing, the new believer secures peace by choosing to walk by the Spirit. This simple act of spiritual dependence ensures victory over internal conflict.
The peace in this command is found in the power of the Holy Spirit:
A Simple Action: To "walk by the Spirit" means to live life step-by-step, moment by moment, guided by the influence and promptings of the Holy Spirit, who dwells inside every believer. It's a continuous, conscious decision to rely on Him.
Guaranteed Victory: The promise is a powerful guarantee: "you will not gratify the desires of the flesh." You do not defeat the negative, peace-stealing thoughts of the flesh by fighting them directly; you defeat them by focusing on the Spirit. The power of the Spirit naturally overrides the power of the flesh.
The Result is Peace: The inner conflict that destroys peace—the war between your old self and your new nature—is resolved not by your effort, but by the Spirit's control. Obedience to this command leads directly to inner harmony.
Your daily peace is secured by daily dependence. When you surrender the control of your mind and actions to the Holy Spirit, He leads you away from internal conflict and into the peaceful, holiness of God's will.
Reflective Question
What area of your life (a habit, a reaction, or a thought pattern) is currently dominated by the desires of the flesh? How can you purposefully walk by the Spirit in that specific area today, trusting Him to lead you to inner peace?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I confess my weakness and my tendency to try and fight the flesh alone. I thank You for the Holy Spirit who dwells within me. I pray for the discipline to walk by the Spirit today, trusting Your promise that I will not gratify the desires that steal my peace. Secure my mind and heart in Your guidance and holiness. Amen.
