Galatians 5:19-20, "The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity, and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, faction, and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like."

1 John 1:9, "But if we confess our sins to Him, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness."

Think

Have you ever traded something of significant worth for something that would only temporarily satisfy? Maybe you had an affair, relapsed in an addiction, or betrayed a friend for someone more popular. In the moment, you may have been satisfied. But in the end, you were left empty and unfulfilled.

The Bible tells us that "the flesh" is anything we do that goes against God's grain. It's doing our own thing, in our own way, and turning against God's best for us. It may feel good temporarily, but it leaves us wanting in the end. The Bible verse above gives examples of the acts of the flesh. Each of them overpromises and underdelivers.

How do we overcome these temptations? First, we invite Jesus into our lives. He's the only One who can give us the strength to resist and rise above the temptations that threaten to bring us down.

The moment Christ enters our lives, the Holy Spirit takes up residence in our hearts to guide and help us. And even though the battle between the flesh and the Spirit wages on, we must remember that, with Jesus in our lives, we aren't fighting for victory - we're fighting FROM it! With Jesus, the battle has been won, forever and ever, Amen!

Act

Reread today's verse. Where have you been giving in to your flesh? Stop now and confess those things to God and ask for His forgiveness. Find a trusted friend who can encourage you to do things God's way.

Pray

Dear God, Thank You for Your grace and forgiveness. Please give me wisdom and discernment to recognize the areas in my life in which I am giving in to the flesh, to the temporary. Thank You for giving me the power to overcome those temptations and walk in victory! In Jesus' name, Amen.