Crucifying the Flesh

10/05/2024

“Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.”
- Galatians 5:24 (NIV)

As believers, we often talk about being transformed by the power of Christ. But what does that transformation look like in our daily lives? Paul’s letter to the Galatians gives us a vivid picture: those who belong to Christ have “crucified the flesh.” This isn’t merely about behavior modification, but a deeper, spiritual change.

What Does it Mean to “Crucify the Flesh”?

The phrase “crucified the flesh” refers to an intentional act of putting to death our sinful nature, the desires and passions that pull us away from God. This doesn’t mean we no longer feel temptation or struggle, but it does mean we no longer give those desires dominion over us. Crucifixion was a painful and deliberate form of execution, and in the same way, the process of surrendering our fleshly desires is neither easy nor passive. It’s a daily decision to live for Christ instead of indulging in things that gratify only ourselves.

Overcoming Anger

Let’s say you have a tendency to lose your temper. You find yourself easily frustrated with co-workers, family members, or even strangers. Your “flesh” wants to snap back, to defend yourself, or to let anger control you. But if you belong to Christ, you choose to respond differently. Perhaps you pause before speaking, asking God for patience and wisdom. Over time, you see the fruit of the Spirit—self-control, gentleness—begin to manifest in moments where you would normally have lost control.

This doesn’t happen overnight. Like crucifixion, it’s a process. You may stumble, but because you belong to Christ, you get back up, ask for forgiveness, and try again, trusting in His strength to help you overcome.

Surrendering Desires: An Example from Finance

Another example that hits home for many people is in the area of finances. Maybe you feel the pull of consumerism, always wanting more, buying things you don’t need. The flesh says, “You deserve this,” or “You’ll be happier with that new gadget or outfit.” But when you have crucified the flesh, you surrender those desires to God. You begin to seek contentment in what you have and find joy in generosity rather than material accumulation. You start to trust God to provide instead of leaning on possessions for security.

Living for Christ, Not Ourselves

Crucifying the flesh means surrendering not just the obvious sins, but even the subtle attitudes and desires that keep us from fully relying on Christ. It’s about choosing to walk in the Spirit, yielding to His guidance in all areas of life. As we do, the fruits of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control—become more evident in our lives (Galatians 5:22-23).

So let me ask, what areas of your life do you struggle to surrender to God?

Are there any passions or desires that you need to crucify today?

How can you rely on the Holy Spirit to help you live a life that reflects Christ?

Choose this day to fully surrender and crucify the flesh.

Lord, thank You for the gift of Your Spirit that empowers me to live in freedom. Help me to crucify my sinful desires and passions so that I may live fully for You. Guide my steps and help me to bear the fruit of Your Spirit in every aspect of my life. Amen.

Pastor Jeff

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