A very interesting and important contrast is presented to us in Galatians chapter 5. If we take this seriously, it is likely to be challenging, perhaps even uncomfortable. (It has challenged my comfort level on a few occasions.) Of course, God’s way—which includes the fruit of the Spirit—is ultimately good, helpful, positive and encouraging.
By the way, sometimes people think they can trick, con, distract or fool God when it comes to sinful thoughts, attitudes or behaviors. This is not possible. God knows everything. (It’s one of the benefits of being God.)
What follows is the text of Galatians 5:19-25:
When you follow the desires of your sinful nature, the results are very clear: sexual immorality, impurity, lustful pleasures, idolatry, sorcery, hostility, quarreling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, dissension, division, envy, drunkenness, wild parties, and other sins like these. Let me tell you again, as I have before, that anyone living that sort of life will not inherit the Kingdom of God.
But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things! Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there. Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit’s leading in every part of our lives.
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