Definition: For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly important verse from Romans 8:13. It’s a really powerful message about our relationship with God and how we can change our lives. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse is essentially saying that our choices and actions today determine whether we live a good life or not. It's about taking responsibility for your own life, and aligning with God’s will. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: "For if ye live after the flesh..." - This means “if you live according to your wants, desires, and impulses.” It’s about living automatically , without thinking about God's guidance. It suggests we often do things that aren't truly aligned with what God wants for us. "...ye shall die:" – This is a warning. Living after the flesh means you're heading down a path that leads to unhappiness, sin, and ultimately, death – not just physical death, but also spiritual death (a loss of connection with God). It’s about living in a way that’s self-centered and doesn’t honor God. "...but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body..." - This is where it gets really important. “Mortify” means to destroy , to eliminate, or to purify. “The deeds of the body” refers to your actions – your thoughts, words, and behavior – that are influenced by your flesh (your lower nature). It's about controlling those impulses and replacing them with God’s will. "...ye shall live." - This is the hopeful part. It means that through the power of God in your spirit , you can change your life and live a life pleasing to Him. You’re not just passively existing; you're actively fighting against the negative influences of your own nature. In essence, the verse encourages us to: Shift our focus from ourselves to God. Don’t rely on your desires to define your worth or happiness. Live according to His will. Let Him guide your choices and actions. Take control of your life through spiritual discipline. This means resisting temptation, practicing forgiveness, and striving for righteousness. It's a call to transformation – to become a new creation in Christ! --- To help me explain it even better for you , could you tell me: What are you hoping to understand more about this verse? (e.g., are you struggling with temptation, or just trying to grasp the bigger picture?)