Why We Struggle with Prayer and Spiritual Growth

Many believers find themselves struggling with the desire to pray or engage in spiritual disciplines. One key reason for this struggle is that we often sow to the flesh but expect to reap from the Spirit. Galatians 6:7-8 clearly states:

"Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life."

This passage teaches us a fundamental spiritual principle: what we feed grows. If we constantly engage in fleshly activities—whether it’s watching sensual content that stirs up lust, entertaining gossip, harboring hatred, or indulging in things that fuel our carnal desires—we end up dampening our spiritual sensitivity. Over time, these habits weaken our desire for the things of God, making prayer and spiritual devotion feel like a burden rather than a delight.

James 4:1-8 highlights three primary areas that hinder our spiritual growth and must be dealt with if we desire to advance in our walk with God:

1. Dealing with the Flesh

Our sinful nature constantly wars against the Spirit (Galatians 5:17). The desires of the flesh—lust, pride, selfishness, and pleasure-seeking—can overpower our spiritual hunger if left unchecked.

To overcome, we must consciously resist these temptations by guarding what we allow into our hearts and minds. This includes controlling what we watch, listen to, and the company we keep. Feeding the flesh weakens our spiritual stamina and opens the door to further bondage.

2. Dealing with the World

The world offers distractions, temptations, and values that are often in direct opposition to God’s ways (1 John 2:15-17). Society encourages self-indulgence, materialism, and instant gratification, all of which can pull us away from pursuing God wholeheartedly.

As believers, we are called to live in the world but not conform to it (Romans 12:2). This requires a deliberate effort to align our desires with God’s Word and seek His will above worldly pursuits.

3. Dealing with the Supernatural (Satanic Influence)

The most subtle and dangerous influence is that of the enemy. Demonic forces seek to exploit our weaknesses, and the moment we yield to the desires of the flesh, we give Satan a foothold in our lives (Ephesians 4:27).

Many believers fail to recognize that spiritual warfare begins with our choices. When we consistently indulge in fleshly desires, we inadvertently open the door for the enemy to operate in our lives, leading to spiritual dullness, oppression, and bondage.

In order to combat demonic influence, we must first take control over the flesh. The spiritual battle is primarily fought in our daily decisions. Here are a few practical ways to win this battle:

• Guard Your Inputs: Be mindful of what you watch, listen to, and engage in. Avoid media and influences that stir up sinful desires.
• Renew Your Mind: Spend time daily in God’s Word and prayer to align your thoughts with His truth (Romans 12:2).
• Fellowship Wisely: Surround yourself with believers who encourage spiritual growth and accountability.
• Crucify the Flesh: Deny yourself of sinful pleasures and instead, sow to the Spirit by developing habits that build your faith—worship, prayer, and acts of service.
• Resist the Devil: Actively reject the temptations and lies of the enemy by standing firm in God’s promises (James 4:7).

If we want to grow spiritually and maintain our passion for the things of God, we must take seriously the principle of sowing and reaping. By dealing with the flesh, resisting worldly influences, and standing against demonic strategies, we position ourselves for spiritual advancement.

Remember, victory in the spiritual realm begins with the daily choices we make in the natural. Sow to the Spirit, and you will reap eternal life.