Have you ever planted cucumber seeds but expected watermelon to grow?
I know it sounds nonsensical but in truth, that’s what it’s like when we sow to the flesh and expect spiritual fruit to grow.
In Galatians 6:7-8 we read:
“Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life.”
Personally speaking and through observation as a mentor, it is easy to rely on the flesh and go into the relationship with what I call ‘jacked up’ motives and agendas.
These motives and agendas can manifest as self-serving desires to be perceived as the most successful mentor among peers.
When our motives are self-serving or self-glorifying, we mock God and make our flesh an idol which dominates our heart, mindset, and actions.
In essence, we have formed a partnership with the flesh to try to accomplish what only the Holy Spirit has the power to accomplish in our own lives and the lives of others.
The temptation to step out in the flesh to serve another through mentorship and discipleship is really powerful. It cannot be defeated with carnal weaponry.
We must choose to deny the flesh with a contrite, surrendered heart.
Acknowledging total dependency on the Holy Spirit to guide and teach is key in being able to effectively lead by example.
There is nothing we will or can ever bring to the table apart from Christ that will ever be of any value!
The mindset and the condition of our heart’s soil in which we begin to engage those we disciple is paramount to the fruit that is born from those seeds that have been planted.
Choose to un-partner with the flesh and partner with the Holy Spirit, and trust His leading
There is so much encouragement and challenge in Galatians 6:7-8.
Be challenged:
Rebuke the temptation to disciple in the flesh out of self-serving motivations or from ‘jacked up’ agendas
Put off the Flesh and put on Christ!
Be encouraged:
Find rest in trusting the Holy Spirit’s leading.
Watch the Lord move in miraculous ways that transform lives for HIS GLORY and KINGDOM!
Choose with your will to be completely surrendered as a vessel that is empty to self and that longs to be filled and poured out!
May our wells run deep and be filled with nothing but the living water!
Always ready to plant, Water, or Harvest the increase of what the Lord has grown!
Prayer: Lord may we be ready in any season. We desperately need you and acknowledge our weakness apart from you and your empowerment. Show us where we may have ‘jacked up’ motives and humble us mercifully. Lord, where am I partnering with my flesh? In mercy and grace, please show me the course correction. In Jesus’ strength and for His glory, Amen!
Blessings!
Crystal Hippo, President