Romans 8:5

“For those who are in accord with the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who are in accord with the Spirit, the things of the Spirit.” -Romans 8:5

-Rom. 8:28 NASB-

Let’s look at the context of the verse first and answer a few key questions.

Who wrote it? Paul, while in Corinth preparing for his visit to Jerusalem

When was it written? Approximately AD 57

To whom was it written? To the Christians in Rome

For what purpose? To introduce Paul to the Romans and present the heart of the message before his arrival in Rome.

Living by the Spirit

In a world that constantly pulls us toward its priorities, desires, and distractions, it’s easy to lose sight of what truly matters. Romans 8:5 offers us a powerful reminder: “For those who are in accord with the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who are in accord with the Spirit, the things of the Spirit.”

This verse, nestled in a section titled “Deliverance from Bondage,” calls us to evaluate where our focus lies. Are we consumed by the things of the world, or are we living as Spirit-filled sons and daughters of the King, set apart for His purposes? Let’s dive deeper into Romans 8:1-24 to uncover the full meaning of this verse and its application to our lives.

The Freedom Found in Christ (Romans 8:1-4)

The chapter begins with an extraordinary declaration: “There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” (Romans 8:1). Jesus’ sacrifice has freed us from the power of sin and death. Because of Him, we no longer live under the weight of guilt or shame. However, this freedom isn’t a license to live as the world lives—it’s a call to live in alignment with the Holy Spirit, who now dwells within us.

The law, while good, was powerless to save us because of our sinful nature. But God, through His Son, accomplished what the law could not. By sending Jesus, He condemned sin in the flesh so that we could live in righteousness through the Spirit.

Setting Our Minds on the Spirit (Romans 8:5-8)

This brings us to verse 5, which draws a clear contrast: those who live according to the flesh are focused on earthly, temporary things, while those who live according to the Spirit have their hearts set on what pleases God.

Living by the flesh means chasing after material possessions, recognition, or fleeting pleasures. It means being consumed by worry, envy, or selfish ambition. But when we live by the Spirit, our thoughts, desires, and actions are transformed. We begin to value what God values—love, joy, peace, and eternal purposes.

Verse 6 sums it up beautifully: “For the mind set on the flesh is death, but the mind set on the Spirit is life and peace.” This doesn’t mean life will always be easy, but it does mean we’ll experience a peace that transcends circumstances as we walk in step with the Spirit.

The Holy Spirit as Our Helper (Romans 8:9-17)

One of the most encouraging truths of this passage is that we are not left to live this Spirit-filled life on our own. Jesus sent the Holy Spirit to dwell within us, guiding, convicting, and empowering us. Romans 8:11 reminds us that the same Spirit who raised Jesus from the dead now lives in us. How incredible is that?

As children of God, we have a new identity. Verse 15 reassures us: “You have not received a spirit of slavery leading to fear again, but you have received a spirit of adoption as sons and daughters, by which we cry out, ‘Abba! Father!’” We are no longer bound by fear or sin. Instead, we have been adopted into God’s family, and His Spirit bears witness with our spirit, reminding us who we are.

Living with Eternity in Mind (Romans 8:18-24)

The section concludes with a powerful perspective shift. Paul acknowledges the suffering we may face in this world but points us to the glory that is to come. “For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that is to be revealed to us” (Romans 8:18).

When we fix our minds on the Spirit, we begin to see life through the lens of eternity. We recognize that the temporary struggles and desires of this world pale in comparison to the hope we have in Christ. This eternal perspective helps us remain steadfast, even when life pulls us in a hundred different directions.

Set Apart for a Purpose

Romans 8:5 is a call to live differently. While the world around us is consumed by the things of the flesh, we are called to be set apart, tuning our hearts to the Holy Spirit. This isn’t something we can do in our own strength. Thankfully, the Holy Spirit is our helper, convicting us when we stray and leading us back to God’s heart.

Living by the Spirit doesn’t mean we’ll never face distractions or temptations. But as we surrender daily, God transforms our minds, helping us desire what He desires and empowering us to live for His glory.

A Heart Check

Do you get so wrapped up in the flesh that you grieve the Holy Spirit by not paying attention to His leading?

If so, take time this week to go to God in prayer. Ask for His grace to recognize where you’ve grieved the Holy Spirit. Repent, and invite the Spirit to guide you as you walk in deliverance. Remember, God has not left you alone. The Holy Spirit is your helper, empowering you to live a life that reflects His love, peace, and purpose.

Let’s choose to set our minds on the things of the Spirit and walk in the freedom and joy that comes from being His children.