Have you ever heard the term “mortification of the flesh”? That’s how theological writers of old termed what Paul presents in our passage today. These writers understood the spiritual battle—the old life, ruled by the sinful nature, versus the new life, ruled by the Spirit. “Mortifying” the flesh meant to put it down, to bring it under control, or in Paul’s words, “put to death.” These theologians well understood that this was not a one-time mortification. While living in our human bodies, we will be putting to death “the deeds of the body.”

So, here’s the question: How does one “mortify the flesh”?

Romans 8:11-13
If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit who dwells in you. So then, brothers, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh. For if you live according to the flesh you will die, but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live.

Paul says that we must live “by the Spirit.” That means to submit to the Spirit’s control. Our prayer at the beginning of each day is, “Lord, by your Spirit, please control my thoughts, words, emotions, and actions.” Before a difficult conversation, we pray, “Lord, on my own, I know my emotions will get out of hand. Please keep them in check.” After a long day, as we pull into the driveway of our home, we pray, “Lord, I am tired and vulnerable to being short, rude, and non-engaging. Please take over my words and actions.” Get the point? Pray for the Spirit’s control over every situation!

One more thing…. Use common sense to stay away from the things that tempt you. If you are an alcoholic, it would be foolish to hang out at a bar. If you are susceptible to porn, don’t surf the internet alone. Take common sense steps to keep yourself away from those situations. If you have a problem with anger, take a walk by yourself when you feel heated emotions taking over. If you have a problem with gossip, don’t have gossipers as friends. You can make the spiritual life as mystical as you want, but growth comes down to two things: The Spirit’s control and common sense. It’s that simple…and that hard.

Father, by your Spirit, control me today. Control my words, actions, thoughts, and emotions. Give me the common sense to know what to stay away from. Today, I want to be both spiritual and practical for Christ’s sake. In his name, I pray. Amen.