RECOGNIZING INDULGENCES
I say, then, walk by the Spirit, and you will certainly not carry out the desire of the flesh. For the flesh desires what is against the Spirit, and the Spirit desires what is against the flesh; these are opposed to each other, so that you don’t do what you want. Galatians 5:16-17 (CSB)
The church of Thyatira experienced people indulging in fleshly desires. Specifically, practicing sexual immorality and eating food sacrificed to idols. Indulgence involves yielding to our flesh instead of to the Holy Spirit. The first step in initiating change is to recognize what’s in control. Let’s look at the seven deadly sins:
- Lust Sexual Gratification
- Gluttony Overconsumption of Things
- Greed Uncontrolled Gain of Money/Possessions
- Sloth Lack of Activity/Laziness
- Wrath Uncontrolled Feelings of Anger
- Envy Sad/Resentful towards Others
- Pride Putting Your Needs/Desires before Others
These are seven ways we indulge our flesh, as opposed to the desires of the Holy Spirit. But to truly overcome them, we must yield to the Spirit rather than our flesh.
APPLICATION: When struggling in sinful indulgence, reflect on what you are yielding to— the flesh or the Spirit. Make a conscious effort to yield to the Spirit.
PRAYER: Jesus,
Help me yield more to Your Spirit than my flesh. Please help me say no to whatever takes my focus off You and Your purpose in my life. Please help me see my growth in these areas and help others to do the same. Amen.