The concept of flesh and spirit is central to understanding human behavior and the struggle within each person. The flesh, derived from the Greek word "sarx," encompasses human nature in its raw state, including thoughts, feelings, desires, and actions apart from God. These are the natural inclinations of man, often driven by physical, human, and natural urges, which cry out for satisfaction and gratification. Works of the flesh manifest as behaviors influenced by this human nature, evident in actions and attitudes that are easily recognizable and often contrary to what is good. In contrast, the Spirit represents the influence of God, guiding toward behaviors and attitudes that align with His will. Once a person becomes a begotten child of God, the flesh finds opposition in the Spirit, creating a constant battle between the two forces. They are diametrically opposed, with no common ground, as the desires of the flesh conflict directly with the designs of God. This struggle means that every day presents a choice: to follow the flesh, which leads to corruption and death, or to walk in the Spirit, which produces good fruit and life. The advice to overcome the works of the flesh is to conduct life under the influence of God's Spirit. By fully engaging with the Spirit, through understanding and acting on God's Word, one can resist the sinful desires of human nature. This requires willpower and a determined effort, as the flesh has deep roots in every aspect of human existence, making the fight against it painful and intense, akin to crucifying the flesh with its passions and desires. Yet, if guided by the Spirit, one can strive toward a state where the law, which reveals sin, holds no power because no transgression occurs. Ultimately, the question remains for each individual: which will be allowed to guide behavior—the flesh, influenced by human nature and external forces, or the Spirit, directed by God? This decision is not made once but must be reaffirmed daily, as the pull of the flesh remains strong. The choice to walk in the Spirit is a commitment to a life of overcoming, aiming for a future where the flesh no longer holds sway, and the Spirit reigns fully in alignment with God's purpose.

In addressing the concept of Flesh and Spirit, a dualistic conflict emerges as a central theme, reflecting a struggle between opposing forces such as matter and spirit, evil and good, darkness and light. This cosmological clash, where no overlapping or gray area is permitted, underscores a perpetual battle throughout time and space. Within this framework, the importance of adhering to spiritual law is paramount, taking precedence over all other laws, as it aligns with the divine standards set by Him. Breaking laws related to physical health, such as neglecting exercise, rest, or proper nutrition, and engaging in harmful practices, can also produce spiritual consequences, highlighting the interconnectedness of the flesh and spirit. Yet, in His boundless mercy, He offers forgiveness for all transgressions through the ultimate sacrifice of His Son, covering every aspect of sin, whether of the flesh or spirit. This selfless act provides confidence and hope, enabling us to live freely as He lives, cleansed of all sin.

In the journey of salvation, a profound conflict arises between the flesh and the Spirit, marking the Christian paradox. Despite being called holy by God, we remain in the flesh, unchanged in our human essence, still carnal as Paul described the Corinthians. We are saints, yet we sin frequently, grappling with attitudes that fall short of divine standards. This paradox defines our existence as a new creation struggling against the old man, considered unleavened through Christ's sacrifice yet dealing with a corrupt heart. This spiritual conflict emerges once God gifts us with His Spirit at baptism, introducing two opposing natures within us. Human nature, a mix of good and evil, is deeply embedded, a senior resident since infancy, self-centered and demanding, striving to maintain dominance. In contrast, God's Holy Spirit, a divine gift, embodies the essence of Christ's mind, bold, powerful, loving, and self-controlled. Unlike the bullying human nature, God's Spirit cooperates with us, working to establish godly habits and Christ-like character by helping us subdue the evil aspects of our flesh. Paul vividly describes this battle in Romans 7, highlighting the struggle between the law of sin in our flesh and the law of God in our mind. The carnal nature often overpowers us, dragging us back into the slavery of sin due to our inherent weakness. Yet, with the mind guided by the Holy Spirit, we serve the law of God, while the flesh continues to serve the law of sin. This life-and-death struggle persists as long as we remain in the flesh, with victories and growth in godliness, though the flesh ever waits to incite sin. In Galatians 5, Paul offers guidance to navigate this conflict. We must walk in the Spirit, striving to obey Its guidance and live out God's knowledge and instruction. We should be aware that these contrary realities cause inner conflict, often with the flesh prevailing due to our weakness, yet this should drive us to overcome. If led by the Spirit, we are covered by grace, spared from the death penalty as we cooperate with God. We must work to mortify the works of the flesh, replacing bad habits with good, and produce the fruits of the Spirit in our relationships and personal growth, practicing love, joy, and peace. Ultimately, if we live in the Spirit, we must walk in It, putting our spiritual life into practice, for intellectual agreement alone is insufficient.