The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the spirit is life and peace.-Romans 8:6
What does Paul mean when he uses the term “governed” when he says “the mind governed”? He is talking about what controls our thoughts and our actions. When we let our earthly desires control our thoughts and our actions it can only lead to one outcome and that is death. But when we allow our thoughts and actions to be controlled by the Holy Spirit the outcome is completely different, because the outcome of leading a Spirit filled life is life and peace. How do you know who is controlling your thoughts and actions? It is very simple. We will know who controls our thoughts and actions by the fruit that we produce. And Paul in Galatians tells us exactly what the fruit of the flesh looks like and what the fruit of the Spirit looks like. “The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery, idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunk ness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.” (Galatians 5:19-25 NIV)