Scripture to Read: Daniel 8:1–8
Alexander the Great received the discipline of God. Though Alexander the Great had conquered the world, the history books tell us that he died of debauchery at around age 32. Some attribute his death to alcoholism; others attribute it to sexually transmitted disease(s). Basically, his lustful passions cost him his life. God warns us, as His children, to die to our lustful passions and desires. God does not want us to live like we did when we were dead in our sins. God tells us in Colossians 3:5–9, “…consider the members of your earthly body as dead to immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and greed, which amounts to idolatry. 6 For it is because of these things that the wrath of God will come upon the sons of disobedience, 7 and in them you also once walked, when you were living in them. 8 But now you also, put them all aside: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and abusive speech from your mouth. 9 Do not lie to one another, since you laid aside the old self with its evil practices.” All of these characteristics are the fleshly desires that we must crucify daily so our lives reflect our Lord Jesus Christ. That is why God also tells us in Colossians 3:10, “and have put on the new self who is being renewed to a true knowledge according to the image of the One who created him.” Then, God lists out for us in Colossians 3:12–17 what our lives should look like and what characteristics should be evident in all His children.
Challenge & Application
• We know lustful passions brought Alexander the Great to an early death, so, how are we to deal with our fleshly desires? (See Ephesians 4:17–32 and Colossians 3:5–16 for help.)
• What Scriptures have you already committed to memory in order to overcome your fleshly desires?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!