Desires of the world
The world promises good feelings, happiness, freedom and superficial ways to rid you of your troubles. But the beautiful light that it presents itself in, to appear grandiose, is a deceptive attempt from the enemy to lead you to eternal death. 2 Corinthians 11:14 says "Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light." The world is the evil one's domain. He was brave enough to promise Jesus the kingdom of the world if he worships him as stated in Matthew 4 verse 8. The flesh desires the things of the world and once Satan has influence over you, he will carry out his tactics in your life to keep you bind and trapped to those fleshly honkers. In John 8:44, Jesus said, "when he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies." One scheme he's known for is to plant doubts in our minds about God. This is one reason why it is so crucial that we know God's words, so that we don't fall prey to false doctrine.
The spirit
How do we fight against these desires? First off, our God is loving, kind and forgiving. Once you've chosen Him, He'll look past every sin you've ever committed, regardless of how unpleasant you think they are, if you just ask for forgiveness. He loves unconditionally and because of this; He is merciful and compassionate towards us when we fall short, especially with the evil one constantly trying to lure us into sin (Psalms 103:13-14). With that said, if we abide in our Heavenly Father, he will help us steer clear of temptations. Here are three ways we can strengthen our spirit and win against the flesh through Jesus.
Be obedient. God's laws and will for us are for our protection from eternal death, the world and the things that can only bring us destruction here on earth (Psalms 19:7-9). They are not just set in place to control us; it is for our good. Not to mention, by obeying his will, not only are we securing our place in the Kingdom of Heaven, but we will also see and feel true peace. joy and his many blessings in our lives. (Deuteronomy 28:1-2)
Have faith. Our God has shown us repeatedly in the scriptures that he is a faithful God. Trust that his will is being done and even though sometimes we can't feel or hear him, know that all that he is doing is for your benefit. Be patient and rest, knowing that he is fulfilling his promises in your life. Keep being obedient and have faith. It will not be in vain (1 Corinthians 15:58). Wonderful miracles can happen when we have faith in our Lord.
Be in constant prayer. Jesus said to his disciples in Matthew 26:41, "watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak." We've learned in the scriptures and in our own lives that as a believer, your prayers can move mountains and through prayer you'll be under God's constant protection. Pray about everything and as long as you are obedient and you have faith, even as small as a mustard seed and are walking in his will, know that God hears your prayers and is working behind the scenes in your favor. (Philippians 4:6-7)
This post was inspired by the song "More Like Jesus" by One Voice Worship (feat. Canaan Baca)