Discerning Flesh or Spirit

Paul says in Romans 6:16 that our basic choice is which of these two do we obey. We can obey sin in the flesh (our way), or God in the Spirit. Romans 6: 16, "Don’t you realize that you become the slave of whatever you choose to obey? You can be a slave to sin, which leads to death, or you can choose to obey God, which leads to righteous living." NLT

The Bible says we must choose the flesh or obeying God in the Spirit. While it is a lot easier, and human nature, to obey the flesh it leads to bitterness, anger, addictions, destruction and even death. If we obey the Spirit, it leads to life, peace and joy. Matthew 26: 40-42, "Then he returned to his disciples and found them sleeping. 'Couldn’t you men keep watch with me for one hour?' he asked Peter. 'Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.' He went away a second time and prayed, 'My Father, if it is not possible for this cup to be taken away unless I drink it, may your will be done.'"

Sometimes I tell Mike I know without a shadow of a doubt this is God. I have learned that when it is of Him, I cannot run, even if it is not comfortable. It will bring Him glory, not me and it will not fit my agenda. Hebrews 4: 12, "For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart." The Spirit will never violate the Word of God. If it is of the Spirit, it will conform to the Word of God. If it is of the flesh it will either promote or glorify you. Stay in the presence of God and His Word and ask Him to help you discern. "Instead of using, 'I'm human' as an excuse to walk in the flesh, try using, 'I'm saved' as a reason to walk in the Spirit."