Romans 8:6: For To Set The Mind On The Flesh Is Death, But To Set The Mind On The Spirit Is Life And Peace.

Romans 8:6
[6] For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace. (ESV)

It is fascinating how those who are engaged in the works of the flesh will often refer to what they are doing as "living it up." The Apostle Paul describes it a bit differently. To set your mind on the flesh is death. This describes every unbeliever in Jesus Christ. Their mind is set on the flesh. What is the end result of such a life? Death.

Paul has made clear previously in the book of Romans that the wages of sin is death (Romans 3:23). A sinful mind does not recognize that the path that they are on is leading them to death. They chase after sensual pleasures. They fight and struggle and even kill to get what they want. Their focus is only earthly. They do not see anything beyond what the world offers. Death awaits them.

The stark contrast we see in this verse is with those who set the mind on the Spirit. What is the result? Life and peace. This is a description of the believer in Jesus Christ. We have been filled with the very Spirit of God. This is the same life-giving Spirit who raised Jesus from the dead. You are not waiting to become alive. You are filled with spiritual life right now.

Now consider the peace that this spiritual mindset provides. Peace is one of the most amazing things that we experience as believers in Christ. The world does not know peace. Jesus said, "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid" (John 14:27)

If you belong to Jesus Christ you have set your mind on the Spirit. Celebrate the life and peace that he has given you. Share with an unbeliever today that they can be set free from the fleshly mind by placing their faith in Jesus Christ.