Feeding the Spirit vs Flesh: The Two Dogs Metaphor

The internal battle between the flesh and the Spirit is a fundamental aspect of the Christian life, determined largely by what individuals choose to feed within themselves. Feeding the Spirit leads to spiritual growth, while feeding the flesh results in stagnation or regression. Just as a dog grows stronger and more dominant when fed, the inner spiritual self becomes stronger when nourished with God’s Word, prayer, and fellowship with other believers ([51:16]). Conversely, indulging the sinful nature through worldly entertainment, sensual pleasures, or intoxicating substances empowers the flesh, causing it to overpower the Spirit and hinder spiritual progress ([47:38]).

The Spirit is represented as the “big dog” in the heart, which grows stronger through intentional feeding—reading Scripture, praying, and obeying God’s commands. This growth enables believers to walk in righteousness, control their desires, and discern God’s will ([52:41]). In contrast, the “little dog” symbolizes the flesh, which becomes dominant and uncontrollable when fed with selfishness, anger, or worldly distractions, leading individuals away from God’s path ([51:55]). The more the flesh is indulged, the more difficult it becomes to live a Spirit-filled life.

Being filled with the Spirit is a daily, intentional choice akin to feeding the big dog. It requires consistent effort to engage with Scripture, maintain a prayer life, and surround oneself with supportive believers ([50:20]). Just as care must be taken in what is fed to the physical body, equal mindfulness is necessary regarding what nourishes the spiritual self. Feeding the Spirit produces qualities such as love, joy, peace, and gratitude—evidences of a Spirit-led life ([58:15]). In contrast, feeding the flesh results in behaviors that grieve the Holy Spirit, including impurity, anger, and selfishness ([34:11]).

This metaphor of feeding two dogs vividly illustrates the ongoing internal battle and underscores that spiritual vitality depends on what is chosen for nourishment. Feeding the Spirit fosters growth in Christ and alignment with God’s will, while feeding the flesh leads to spiritual stagnation and death. The essential principle is to be intentional each day in feeding the Spirit so that one may walk wisely, discern God’s will, and live a life that glorifies Him ([58:53]).

This article was written by an AI tool for churches, based on a sermon from Solid Rock Plymouth, one of 60 churches in Boulder, CO