photo #8902069

Paul gives us a picture of two different lifestyle choices: one is to chase the temptations of the flesh, the others is to chase the Spirit. One leads to death, the other to life. The difference is what we set our mind on, what we think about, what we do. Do you lust after bodily pleasures or does your heart yearn for the Spirit? That is what decides our fate.I have certainly been guilty at times of seeking the pleasures of the flesh. I believe that we all have, whether it be romantic love, material possessions, or even another juicy cheeseburger. It is so hard to steer clear of these temptations, and if we think about it further, is it really wrong for us to want these things? Is it wrong to romantically love someone and enjoy the physical nature of the bodies that God provided us? Is it wrong to want to make money and be successful so that we can buy the things that make us feel good? Is it wrong to want to eat and drink to our hearts content? In a vacuum, all of these things are not wrong, but as Paul explains, if the pleasures of the flesh are the REASON that we do these things rather than with the Spirit in mind, it will lead to death.We might be feeling a little guilty right about now. What can we do to put our mind on the Spirit? Reading and meditating on this verse is a good first step. More importantly, think about the reasons that we do the things that we do: are you loving your partner because of their physical attractiveness or are you doing it because you have the Spirit in mind? Does your relationship impact the world in a positive way and in a way that would be justified in the eyes of God? Do you make money so that you can buy that car or house or do you make money to do as God requests you to do? Seek peace and be merciful, loving your neighbors as yourself? We can all be better, and we all must be better.Focus your mind on the Spirit. Think about eternal life: would any of the worldly pleasures be worth death instead of life? The choice is clear.