Interpretation of the Bible / Romans 8:8

Romans 8:8 is a powerful statement that those who live according to the flesh cannot please God.

First, it is important to understand what it means to “live according to the flesh.” In short, it means living a life driven by our earthly desires and passions. This lifestyle is focused on satisfying our personal wants and needs rather than seeking God’s will for our lives.

As Christians, we are called to reject these tendencies and live in a way that pleases God. The Apostle Paul mentions elsewhere in the Bible that we are to “put to death the deeds of the flesh” (Galatians 5:24) and “put on the new man” (Colossians 3:10).

So why can’t we please God if we live according to the flesh? In large part, it is because our earthly desires conflict with God’s will for our lives. The Bible teaches us that God has a plan for our lives and that His ways are higher than ours (Isaiah 55:8-9).

If we want to please God, we must seek His will and follow His ways, not our own. This can be difficult, especially when our personal interests interfere. However, the power of the Holy Spirit can help us overcome these difficulties and get on the right path.