Our scripture this morning is Galatians 5:16-18.
So I say, let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. Then you won’t be doing what your sinful nature craves. The sinful nature wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the Spirit wants. And the Spirit gives us desires that are the opposite of what the sinful nature desires. These two forces are constantly fighting each other, so you are not free to carry out your good intentions. But when you are directed by the Spirit, you are not under obligation to the law of Moses.
Paul explains our dual nature and the battle we fight against evil. From the very beginning our free will, given as a gift from God, has allowed us to disobey Him. The very thing that marks us as creatures made in God’s image also enables us to embrace our own desires rather than His. We must be aware of the Holy Spirit working in our lives, God’s presence with us always, and ask for the help we need. God stands ready to strengthen us in our conflict, to choose what is right and not merely what makes us feel good.
Loving Lord, we are weak and prone to stray from the path You have laid out for us. Thank You for being with us to guide us back to Your saving grace. Amen.