Icebreaker: If you had to describe your productivity or mood this past week as a plant, would it be a thriving fruit tree, a stubborn weed, or a cactus that’s a little prickly to be around? Why?

Discussion 1: Paul gives the key command in verse 16: “But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” He then explains the struggle in verse 17: the desires of the flesh and the desires of the Spirit are constantly at war with each other. What does it mean to “keep in step with the Spirit”? How does understanding that this internal war is constant change your approach to battling temptation?
Application 1: Since the desires of the flesh and the Spirit are opposed, we cannot satisfy both. Where in your life do you currently feel the most intense “tug-of-war” between what you know is right and what you want to do? What does it look like to consciously choose to “walk by the Spirit” this week?

Discussion 2: Verses 19-21 provide a list of the “works of the flesh” (sexual immorality, idolatry, enmity, anger, envy, etc.). Paul warns that those who continue to practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. Why is it important for Paul to list these specific behaviors right after emphasizing that we are not under the Law (v. 18)? What does this list tell us about where human nature leads when it is not guided by the Spirit?
Application 2: Because our human nature naturally leads us toward the “works of the flesh” and away from God, we can never “drift” toward holiness; without intention, we always drift toward selfishness. If you look at your personal life and your family life right now, do you see a “drift” toward the works of the flesh (like irritability, strife, or division)? What is one intentional plan or spiritual rhythm you can put in place this week to stop the drift and stay connected to the Spirit?

Discussion 3: In contrast to the “works of the flesh,” verses 22-23 list the “fruit of the Spirit” (love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control). Why does Paul call these qualities fruit (singular) and not “fruits” (plural) or “works”? How does the analogy of fruit suggest that these qualities are grown organically by the Spirit, rather than being manufactured by our own effort?
Application 3: “Keeping in step with” implies a moment-by-moment alignment with God’s lead, similar to following a pace-setter in a race. If you were to “keep in step” with the Spirit what is the first thing you might have to surrender or change you might need to make? What are some ways we can “keep in step” with the Spirit throughout our day, week, month, year? (Take time to think daily, then short-term, then long-term).