We tend to think of life as a spectrum—a mix of good and bad, strength and weakness, faith and doubt. But when it comes to our spiritual standing before God, Scripture leaves no room for shades of gray. In Romans 8, Paul makes a bold and sobering distinction: you are either controlled by the flesh or led by the Spirit. There is no middle ground.
That’s not easy to hear. We like to believe there’s space for people who are “trying their best” or who “mean well.” But Paul cuts through that illusion. He isn’t talking about a struggle between good and bad habits. He’s defining two entirely different identities—one that leads to life and one that leads to death.
A mind set on the flesh is consumed by earthly desires. It fixates on comfort, success, approval, or pleasure, always seeking to satisfy itself while ignoring or resisting God. It can look religious, even moral, but at its core, it remains hostile to God.
A mind set on the Spirit, however, is captivated by Christ. It doesn’t mean perfection or a life free from struggle. It means a heart that is consistently drawn toward God—a life marked by conviction, repentance, and a growing desire to walk in obedience.
The unsettling truth is that many assume they are safe because they prayed a prayer once or grew up in church. But Paul challenges us to look deeper. Is there real evidence of the Spirit’s work in your life? Do you desire Christ, or do you just desire to avoid hell? Do you follow Him out of love, or are you merely keeping up appearances?
These are questions we cannot afford to ignore. Eternity hangs in the balance. The good news? If you find yourself convicted, it’s not too late. Christ stands ready to receive all who come to Him in repentance and faith.
So, which road are you on? There are only two. And there is no middle ground.