The Apostle Paul warns us in Ephesians 5:13 - 14 not to overindulge our flesh but instead serve one another. What is an area of your life that you could commit to doing a better job of serving others so you’re not overindulging your desires?
We learned that walk in Ephesians 5:16 – 18 is translated from the Greek word peri-pateo and refers to how we conduct our everyday lives. We should conduct our lives in the leading of the Holy Spirit and not chase after our fleshly desires. Pastor Randy summarized this by saying if we’re doing everything we want to do, then we’re not walking in the Spirit. What is something in your life that you could stop doing this week to pursue a closer relationship with the Holy Spirit?
When we think of lusts of the flesh, we often think of things such as sexual immorality or maybe even what we put into our bodies. But Ephesians 5:19-21 also mentions things like quarreling, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, division, and more. We're sure none of us live a lifestyle defined by any of these but read through the entire list. Which area is the Holy Spirit guiding you to make an effort to indulge in less than you do right now?
Bonus: Next time you’re facing a tough decision, try this:
Ask yourself if either option is satisfying a fleshly desire. Some common desires could be something that makes you feel temporarily better or to make someone like you more.
Ask yourself if either option moves you closer to keeping one of Jesus’ two commandments. Be honest with yourself and ensure it lines up with the Word of God. If you’re weighing sleeping with someone that isn’t your wife, it doesn’t count as loving your neighbor.
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