First, conflict between flesh and the Spirit (16-21). Instead of living by the law, we ought to be led by the Spirit. The Spirit and the flesh are in conflict. The Spirit desires the things of God. But the flesh desires things that are contrary to God's law. When we live according to our flesh, the result is obvious as in verses 19-21. In fact, those who insisted on keeping the law ended up living by the flesh. Those who live by the flesh cannot inherit the kingdom of God. Second, the fruit of the Spirit (22-26). The fruit of the Spirit is also clearly seen in those who walk by the Spirit. They love others, have true joy, have and bring peace, etc.... There is no law against such things. When we are in Christ, our fleshly desires have been crucified. We do not live by our flesh anymore but we keep in step with the Spirit. The Spirit helps us day by day to reveal God's love through our lives.
Application: Lord, thank you for the gift of the Holy Spirit. Please bear the fruit of the Spirit in us.
One Word: Live by the Spirit