Controlling Sinful Appetites
Appetite can be defined as “a strong desire or urge.” While we typically associate it with food or drink, this word refers to any powerful wish, including the longing for security, a craving for wealth, or a sexual desire.
Most of our appetites, in their purest forms, are God-given. The problem arises when we allow them to usurp His rightful place on the throne of our hearts.
- Aside from the ones listed above, name some appetites that can get people into trouble.
- Which of your desires sometimes get out of control?
God’s Path to Freedom
According to worldly wisdom, the way to overcome unhealthy desires is by adhering to a series of rules and guidelines. Although moral absolutes do provide us standards for behavior, they are not the means to godliness. God wants us to depend on Him to find relief from our fixations. Here are a series of helpful steps in addressing any appetite that gets out of control.
Confession
Admit before God that indulging a wayward appetite is disobedience. Agree with Him that not only are the effects of sin painful, but the sin itself is a risky and ineffective way to attempt meeting your needs.
- In explaining how believers should treat one another, what does Ephesians 4:32 imply about the way God treats us?
- What reassurance does Romans 8:1-2 give about your relationship with Christ despite your weaknesses?
Take a moment to confess your sin and receive God’s forgiveness.
Surrender
You must admit that you can’t conquer a harmful appetite on your own. Ask the Holy Spirit to provide the strength you need to resist it.
- Why do you think Paul says that rules such as “Do not handle, do not taste, do not touch” are of “no value against fleshly indulgence” (Col. 2:21, 23)?
- Jesus said, “The Son can do nothing of Himself, unless it is something He sees the Father doing” (John 5:30). Paul wrote, “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me” (Phil. 4:13). Is there a contradiction in these two statements? Explain.
- Believers are “crucified with Christ” (Gal. 2:20). Since we are still alive physically, what do you think this means (see also Luke 9:23-24)?
- Why does weakness give us an opportunity to be strong (2 Cor. 12:9-10)?
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