(Galatians 5:17 NLT) The sinful nature wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the Spirit wants. And the Spirit gives us desires that are the opposite of what the sinful nature desires. These two forces are constantly fighting each other, so you are not free to carry out your good intentions. No matter how long we have walked with God, our flesh never improves; it never becomes more like the Spirit over time! That’s why we are told to crucify it and walk each day by the power God’s indwelling Spirit provides.
‘…. Obey only the Holy Spirit’s instructions…. Then you will not always be doing the wrong things your evil nature wants you to ….. we naturally love to do evil things that are just the opposite from the things that the Holy Spirit tells us to do; and the good things we want to do when the Spirit has His way with us are just the opposite of our natural desires. These two forces within us are constantly fighting each other to win control over us, and our wishes are never free from their pressures… But when the Holy Spirit controls our lives He will produce this kind of fruit in us: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness & self-control..’ (Galatians 5:16-17, 22-23 TBL).
Is such a lifestyle possible? Yes, but you must do these things;
1) Recognise that you are a target for the enemy & protect yourself with God’s word & prayer
2) Get rid of the one sin that repeatedly defeats you: ‘… lay aside… the sin which so easily snares…’ (Hebrews 12:1 NKJV)
3) Stand in God’s strength, not your own. How? By fighting until you experience victory. His might, plus your choice to obey and keep on fighting, always lead to a clear and lasting victory!
