"But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh." Galatians 5:16

You know sometimes you just have to get your way. It's true. There is something about the flesh that takes over during a conflict, meeting, or discussion that brings out this devilish need for gratification in you. While you don't often give this attention, it's a manifestation of the "desires of the flesh." While you indeed may be right about your perspectives, views, and even justified in your passions - you have to ask yourself a question only you can answer - "Is it a desire of the Spirit or a desire of the flesh?" The only way to know the answer is to contrast your "walking," or your actions and attitudes, with those of God. In moments like this when you feel the battle war within choose not to lean on your understanding but instead act as one whose "mind is set on the Spirit" (Romans 8:6). And then next "put to death the deeds of the body" by stating God's truth with an attitude that represents a follower of Christ (Romans 8:13).

DO THIS: Battle within and win with the Spirit.

PRAYER: God, I know I don't always lean on you in these moments. But give me strength and power to become aware of the enemy within and may my desires become yours.