Two Distinct Natures

Scripture – Galatians 5:16-18: ¹⁶So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature. ¹⁷For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want. ¹⁸But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under law.

Reflection: – Paul lifts up what is a constant tension for all of us. I live with two distinct natures in me. They pull me in opposite directions. If I gratify one I am denying the other.

In the face of that, our instruction here is to choose our spiritual nature over our sinful nature. As simple as that is to understand, it’s difficult to put into practice. My sinful nature is the default setting with which I was born. My spiritual nature came to me when I opened myself to Christ and His presence in me. My goal is to have this spiritual nature become the default.

The problem is I don’t believe this sinful nature will ever go away as long as I live in this body. It will always be lurking. And I can’t ever take it for granted. For the Evil One will use it any time to cause all kinds of problems if I don’t pay attention.

How do you experience these two natures in your life? How can you gratify one over the other? What will you do to “live by the Spirit” today?