Devotional: Indicators of Ungodliness

Galatians 5:16-21

Many of us are familiar with Galatians 5:22-23. These two verses tell us about the fruit of the Spirit. If we have the Spirit we also have these nine characteristics in our life. However, I have never read a Sunday school lesson, and I have never heard a sermon that emphasized characteristics and behaviors that indicate ungodliness. We need to know what these indicators are. This is true because as Paul writes in verses 16-17. If we do not live by the Spirit we are consumed by the flesh. Paul writes, “For the flesh sets its desire against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are in opposition to one another, so that you may not do the things that you please” (v.17, NASB).

Paul list at least fifteen indicators that we are living in the flesh instead of living in the Spirit (vv.19-21). When we look at these indicators we become aware that we cannot live according to the desires of the flesh and live according to the Spirit at the same time. So, I must take notice of what I am feeling; what I am thinking; and what I am doing at all times. If I am living according to the desires of my flesh, I am not living according to the Spirit. The desires of the flesh are indicators of ungodliness.

Prayer: Father, we thank you that your word gives us indicators of ungodliness. We desire to live according to the Spirit because this is your will for us. Amen.