To understand what motivates us, we need to be able to recognize the difference between a life driven by the flesh and a life directed by the Spirit. The apostle Paul helps us do this by describing the “fruit” produced by each way of living.
In Galatians 5:19–21 (CSB), Paul lists the obvious works of the flesh:
sexual immorality, moral impurity, promiscuity, idolatry, sorcery, hatreds, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambitions, dissensions, factions, envy, drunkenness, carousing, and anything similar.
Then he gives a sobering warning—those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.
But Paul doesn’t leave us there. He goes on to describe the fruit of a Spirit-led life:
“The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.” (Galatians 5:22-23, CSB)
There is no law that stands against these things, because they reflect God’s character and His desires for His people. Those who belong to Christ have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live by the Spirit, Paul says, we should keep in step with the Spirit—avoiding conceit, provoking one another, and envy.
When Paul calls the works of the flesh “obvious,” he means they clearly oppose the law of love Jesus gave His followers. Instead of putting others first, the flesh focuses inward. It seeks what we want, when we want it, without regard for God or others.
This is why examining our motivations matters. Are we acting out of self-interest, or out of a desire to honor God and serve others? Our natural instinct is to choose ourselves. Sacrifice does not come easily, and without the Spirit’s help, we drift toward selfishness.
The Spirit’s Fruit (vv. 22–23)
When we are led by the Spirit, Paul says, “there is no law against such things.” The Spirit becomes our compass, guiding us into God’s will. The fruit of the Spirit isn’t a checklist—it’s the evidence of a life shaped by God.
When love fills our actions, when peace rules our hearts, when kindness flows out of us—these are signs that the Spirit is at work. A Spirit-led life looks radically different from a life centered on self.
So ask yourself:
- Can you describe your life using these qualities?
- Are you motivated by love for others?
- Do you experience joy and peace?
- Are patience and kindness growing in you?
A Spirit-led life will produce Spirit-shaped fruit.
Walking by the Spirit (vv. 24–26)
Paul reminds us that those who belong to Jesus have crucified the flesh. Through Christ, the power of sinful desires has been broken—but we must continually surrender to Him. Without surrender, we lack the strength to resist the flesh, and the Spirit’s voice becomes increasingly faint.
The walk of the Spirit begins with surrender.
Consider these questions:
- Have you surrendered to Jesus?
- Are you more committed to God’s will than your own desires?
- Are you willing to remove distractions so you can hear the Spirit clearly?
There should be a clear contrast between the lives of Jesus’ followers and the world around them. Not because we are more disciplined or morally strong, but because we are committed to being led by the Spirit. As we surrender to His guidance, the Spirit leads us away from the passions of the flesh and toward the life God created us to live.
Point to Ponder:
Is the fruit of the Spirit increasingly visible in your life?
Question to Consider:
What is one area where you need to surrender more fully to the Spirit today?
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