Lenten Reader | Day 20

March 27th, 2025

Realm of the Spirit

Those who are in the realm of the flesh cannot please God.

You, however, are not in the realm of the flesh but are in the realm of the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, they do not belong to Christ. But if Christ is in you, then even though your body is subject to death because of sin, the Spirit gives life because of righteousness. And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who lives in you.

Therefore, brothers and sisters, we have an obligation—but it is not to the flesh, to live according to it. For if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live.

For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God.

Romans 8:8-14

The passage begins with the truth that those living solely according to their flesh cannot please God. This is not about occasional mistakes, errors, or imperfections. It speaks to a way of life defined by self-centeredness, driven by worldly desires, and being disconnected from God. It is a life focused on immediate gratification, ignoring the deeper longings of the soul. When we choose this realm, we may find happiness for a moment – but it is fleeting. Having true peace, joy, and purpose requires a different choice.

When we read Romans 8:9: "You, however, are not in the realm of the flesh but in the realm of the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God lives in you." Pay close attention to the keyword “if.” It is an invitation, a possibility, and a challenge. We must choose to turn away from the desires of the flesh and open our hearts to His presence. When we make the decision to accept the invitation, we will begin to experience things the way God intends.

The same Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead lives within us, promising to give life to our earthly selves. This is not just a future hope; it's available right now. The Spirit empowers us to overcome the temptations of the flesh, to put to death the desires of the flesh, and to live a life that is pleasing to God.

This leads to an important understanding: we are no longer a slave to the flesh or our sinful nature. Instead, we have an obligation but not to the flesh. We are no longer slaves to our sinful nature. Instead, we are called to live according to the Spirit. This will guide our thoughts, actions, and desires.

Making the choice to live in the realm of the Spirit is not a passive experience. It requires a daily choice, a surrender to God's will. It's a journey of walking in step with the Spirit, allowing Him to transform us from the inside out. It is a life of purpose, power, and eternal life. What choice will you make today?

Christina Martin