Scripture to Read: Romans 7:17–18
Our sinful nature, our “flesh,” will never hunger for the things of God but will always long for the things of this world. What does this world have to offer our sinful nature? God tells us in 1 John 2:16, For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh and the lust of the eyes and the boastful pride of life, is not from the Father, but is from the world. The spiritual forces of darkness (Ephesians 6:12) only have three things to offer according to 1 John 2:16. But those three things are packaged according to our greatest weaknesses. In the garden of Eden, Eve took her eyes off of all God had given to her and Adam. Instead, Eve focused on the fruit of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. Eve saw it was good for food (lust of the flesh), it was a delight to the eyes (lust of the eyes), and it was desirable to make one wise (boastful pride of life). God had Paul share his struggle with his “flesh” in Romans 7:17–18, So now, no longer am I the one doing it, but sin which dwells in me. 18 For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh; for the willing is present in me, but the doing of the good is not. It reads in verse 17 as if Paul has no responsibility for his actions. But God had Paul clarify in verse 18 that his “flesh” was not good and would never be good.
Challenge & Application
Since there’s a battle between our “flesh” and God’s Spirit in us, how are you staying focused on God & His Word?
How can you share this truth with others to help them know they’re not alone and that victory is possible through Christ?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!