Overcoming the Lust of the Flesh

Scripture: 1 John 2:16-17 - 16 Here is what people who belong to this world do. They try to satisfy what their sinful desires want to do. (Lust of the Flesh) They long for what their sinful eyes look at. (Lust of the Eyes) They take pride in what they have and what they do.  (Pride of One's Lifestyle) All of this comes from the world. None of it comes from the Father. 17 The world and its lust is passing away, but whoever does what God wants them to do lives forever.

Reflection: The New Testament warns about the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life. These were the very desires that led to Samson’s downfall. Recognizing and combating these desires is essential for living a life set apart for God.

Devotional: The Apostle John identifies three major temptations that believers must guard against: the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life. These were the very desires that ensnared Samson, leading to his tragic end. Samson’s life illustrates the destructive power of giving in to these temptations and the importance of living a life of holiness.

To combat these desires, we must actively pursue a relationship with God, seeking His will above our own. This involves daily disciplines of prayer, scripture reading, and community fellowship. By focusing on God’s desires for our lives, we can resist the temptations that lead to spiritual and relational ruin.

Reflection Questions:
Which of the three temptations—lust of the flesh, lust of the eyes, pride of life—do you struggle with the most?
What steps can you take to resist these temptations and live a life set apart for God?

Practical Application:
Develop a daily routine of spiritual disciplines, including prayer, scripture reading, and worship.
Surround yourself with a supportive community of believers who encourage you to pursue holiness.

Prayer: Lord, help me to resist the temptations of the flesh, eyes, and pride. Fill me with Your Spirit and guide me to live a life that is set apart for Your glory. Strengthen me to walk in Your ways and to seek Your will above all else. Amen.