Reading: Galatians 5:16-25 -- A description of the ongoing conflict between the desires of the flesh and the work of the Holy Spirit, along with the fruit that the Spirit produces in a surrendered life.

Devotional: The struggle to be faithful is real, and Scripture does not pretend otherwise. There is a genuine conflict happening inside every believer -- a pulling between who we are in the flesh and who God is calling us to become. The acts of the flesh come naturally, like water flowing downhill. But the fruit of the Spirit is grown, not manufactured. You cannot force yourself into joy, peace, or self-control through willpower alone. These qualities are cultivated as you remain connected to God and allow his Spirit to work in you. The battle is real, but so is the power available to you through the Holy Spirit.

Reflection: Which fruit of the Spirit do you most need God to grow in you right now, and what is one way you can stay more connected to him this week?