Poem

I’ll tell of a battle that I was just in;

A war with two sides, both determined to win

A fight for supremacy, power and rule

With force and intent and artillery tools.

Two contenders stood tall asking for my regard

Making case for their cause, and to choose — it was hard.

And I, a contestant, tried to pick who was right

The Spirit or Flesh? Oh, why must they fight?

The first one approached me, her name was the Spirit

She was kind and sincere, in her voice I could hear it.

She told me she wants to please God in all things

To be faithful to Him, no matter pain brings

Discomfort, or trouble, heartache or gloom

Anguish or doldrums, or a grief much too soon.

Enduring, devoted, upright and true

She renounced every failure — determined anew.

Her Savior was worth it after all He had done

Gave up Heaven for her wage by giving His Son!

So the Spirit said, “Yes! I’m willing to live

In the light of His love and obedience I’ll give!

I’ll be faithful to Him, and I’ll never choose sin

I want God on my side, and with Him we will win!”

But the Flesh overheard her, and screeched “What about ME?!

I’m fun and I’m lively and I’m easier to see!

Surrender to me and I’ll make you feel good

I’ll teach you to fight so that you’re understood.

The lust of your eyes will be filled with delight

I’ll tempt you with food and with clothes that are bright.

I’ll train you to criticize to chide and complain

I’ll flaunt the reward when carnality reigns.

I’ll appetize greed so that you can’t resist

So attitudes and rebellion can always persist.

I’ll show you the perks of defiance and pride

Entertainment and pleasures, come on, choose my side!

I promise a good time — you’ll be in control

You’ll never get hurt and don’t worry ‘bout your soul.

The Spirit did weaken as the Flesh made his case

Disappointment and dread grew all over her face.

“But the Spirit is willing, and the Flesh is so weak!”

Spirit cried, “Flesh is lying, he’s fake and he’s full of deceit!”

So I turned to the Spirit and said “I choose your side

The Flesh is a thing that I’ve already tried

It leaves me so empty, so worn and destroyed

So Spirit, please help me when that Flesh does annoy.”

I humble myself in a soft-spoken prayer

My flesh is so hungry, I must stay aware.

Lord, help me to fight this war on my knees

Because You are the Master that I want to please!