"Those who are dominated by the sinful nature think about sinful things, but those who are controlled by the Holy Spirit think about things that please the Spirit."
Every time I read this it makes me thankful that God gave me the Spirit living in me to guide me. Our minds will always be taking in what the world wants because this world is happening now, but we can fill our mind with the stuff that God has given us (His word and we can know that the Holy Spirit will lead us into all truth so we can win the battle in our minds. Verse 6 says, "So letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace." This is how we get through the difficult times, the sad time, and life in this world. We study, pray, and worship God letting the Holy Spirit lead us and guide us to do the things He is showing us. It says when the Spirit controls our mind we have life and peace; that is how we bring heaven to earth and live as a light.
When we look at these next verses we need to believe they are true, and let your lives show it. Verses 12 and 13 say "Therefore, dear brothers and sisters, you have no obligation to do what your sinful nature urges you to do. For if you live by its dictates, you will die. But if through the power of the Spirit you put to death the deeds of your sinful nature, you will live." I am not sure about you but I want to live and I want to know Jesus and have my life be different. At the times we think we can't handle things the Holy Spirit will give is the prayers we need to strengthen us, and we will respond out of trust and love for the Lord and the Spirit will guide us just as we need. It says in Romans chapter 8 verse 26 "And the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness. For example, we don’t know what God wants us to pray for. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words." He always has our back and we hear Him when we are listening. When I was thrown from a horse last year, the Holy Spirit guided me in prayer and in how I should react while laying in the desert. The incredible thing is that we don't have to know what we need sometimes we just have to surrender and believe, and He will help with everything. I truly love this next verse in Romans chapter 8 verse 28 "And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose for them." Let's all seek wisdom and let's give up control so we can let our sinful nature go and live as conquerors following His Spirit in us. Amen