Galatians 5:16-26

[5:16-26] Paul wants the Galatians to let the Holy Spirit guide their lives.  He makes a very clear and simple statement the empowers the believers to rely upon the Holy Spirit.  He tells them in verse 16, “So I say, let the Holy Spirit guide your lives.  You won’t be doing what your sinful nature craves.”  There is a constant struggle between the sinful nature and the nature we receive from the Holy Spirit.  Verse 17 points out that, “…These two forces are constantly fighting each other, so you are not free to carry out your good intentions.”  Believers sinful nature is a distraction to their new nature, which is found in Christ Jesus.

Paul gives a clear picture of the results of the sinful nature [Galatians 5:19-21] and then points out the type of fruit that is produced by the Holy Spirit [Galatians 5:22-23].  Then we receive the glorious truth found in verse 24, “Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there.  Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit’s leading in every part of our lives.”  Hallelujah!!!