Walk in the Spirit

It is faith-strengthening and hopeful to notice the tremendous promise that is attached to the command, “Walk in the Spirit.” Then the desires of the flesh are not fulfilled—not in anything for as long as we live. Is that possible? And is it difficult? These are questions that arise immediately. Yes, God’s Word says that if you are willing and obedient, you shall eat the good of the land. Isaiah 1:19. The way is narrow, and there are few who find it. Matthew 7:14.

The flesh and the Spirit war against each other; therefore the flesh will at once brush aside any such thought, and tell us that it is useless. Consequently we need to receive the Word that was planted in us, and which is mighty to save our souls, with meekness. It is a good beginning when the Word has been planted into a heart, but it takes time until the fruit appears. Until then the Word has to be received over and over again with meekness. Otherwise even the most glori­ous promise will be useless.

This was the case with Israel. The Word which they heard did not profit them, because it did not melt together with faith in their hearts. However, once the Word has been given a place in our hearts—we have given it some time so the roots have taken hold by the rivers of water, and the fruits have begun to appear above ground—we are immovable. Such people are blessed. They will not sorrow in dry years; neither will they cease to bear fruit. They will never fulfill the desires of the flesh.