In our Christian walk, we often hear about the concept of the “flesh”—our natural, sinful tendencies that oppose God’s will. The Bible gives us a clear picture of the dangers of the flesh, highlighting the need for us to stay vigilant and lean on the Holy Spirit to overcome these challenges. The terms “flesh” and “carnal” (or “fleshly”) are often used interchangeably in Scripture to describe this sinful nature.
The Natural Man vs. The Spiritual Man
We all struggle with the tension between our natural, fleshly (or carnal) desires and our spiritual aspirations. The Bible tells us that the natural man cannot understand the things of the Spirit; they seem like foolishness to him (1 Corinthians 2:14). But the spiritual man, guided by the Holy Spirit, is able to discern and judge all things (1 Corinthians 2:15). This ongoing internal conflict is something every believer faces, and it reminds us of the need to constantly seek the Spirit’s guidance.
The Flesh is Hostile Toward God
Our flesh, or carnal nature, is naturally hostile to God. Romans 8:7 tells us that “the mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God; it does not submit to God’s law; indeed, it cannot” (Romans 8:7). This hostility is a stark reminder of how our sinful nature stands in direct opposition to God’s holiness. It’s a powerful call to seek transformation through the Holy Spirit.
The Flesh is Weak
Despite our best intentions, we often find ourselves failing due to the weakness of our flesh. Jesus highlighted this in the Garden of Gethsemane when He said to His disciples, “Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak” (Matthew 26:41). This acknowledgment of our human frailty is a reminder to depend on God’s strength rather than our own.
The Flesh is Wicked
The wickedness of the flesh is evident in Scripture. Galatians 5:19-21 lists the “works of the flesh,” which include sexual immorality, impurity, idolatry, and more, warning that “those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God” (Galatians 5:19-21). This stark warning serves as a call to repentance and a pursuit of holiness through the Spirit.
The Flesh is Warring Against God
The battle between the flesh and the Spirit is intense and unrelenting. Galatians 5:17 describes this conflict: “For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh, for these are opposed to each other, to keep you from doing the things you want to do” (Galatians 5:17). This internal struggle is something we all experience, highlighting our need to actively seek the Spirit’s guidance and empowerment.
The Flesh is Prone to Wander
Our flesh naturally tends to stray from God. Isaiah 53:6 notes, “All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned—every one—to his own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all” (Isaiah 53:6). This wandering nature reminds us of our need for Jesus, our Good Shepherd, who guides us back to the path of righteousness.
The Flesh is Worldly
The flesh is drawn to the things of this world, which often stand in opposition to God’s kingdom. 1 John 2:16 explains, “For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life—is not from the Father but is from the world” (1 John 2:16). This worldly attraction can distract us from spiritual growth, emphasizing the need to focus on eternal values.
Defeating the Flesh
Romans 7:24-25 ESV
Wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death? Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord! So then, I myself serve the law of God with my mind, but with my flesh I serve the law of sin.
Paul’s expression of frustration with his carnal nature is relatable to us all. That God he doesn’t live us without hope. Thank God for Romans 8:1
Romans 8:1 ESV
There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.
Jesus has provided victory through his own body, his own flesh. We can win!
Understanding the dangers of our flesh is crucial for our spiritual growth. Each of us experiences the tension between our natural, carnal desires and our spiritual goals, with the flesh being hostile, weak, wicked, warring, prone to wander, and worldly. By recognizing these truths and relying on the Holy Spirit for strength and guidance, we can overcome the flesh and live in accordance with God’s will. Through Scripture, prayer, and community, we can stay vigilant and victorious in this ongoing spiritual battle.
