We can scratch our heads and wonder how one becomes a Epstein, a Bundy, a Hitler, a Capone, or any number of celebrities who die of some drug overdose. How does one become a power hungry tyrant, killing millions? Or a vile lecher scarring scores of women? Or a corrupt billionaire, bilking thousands out of their life-savings? Here’s how…
If you indulge in clicking on that link, or you relish publicly cussing out your employees, or you bet your paycheck on a Vegas long-shot, or you photoshop your profile picture to deceptively improve your appearance, you’re simply habituating yourself to become swollen with unbridled desire. The horse-leech, as Solomon tells us, only knows one word, “Give, give, give.†It is always glutted, but never satisfied. You battle the lust for power, or sexual perversion, or financial glory, or celebrity by resisting it in the small matters. Standing up to your little lusts is how you prepare for resisting great lusts.
All of our little lusts—our lust for a bit more recognition, to have what our neighbors have (or what they show they have on Pinterest), for a bit more control over the people around us, for gratification of physical desires—all our avarice, and corrupt desires are just misguided attempts to get the blessing of God. Lust is the futile attempt to obtain the blessings that only come from diligence, duty, self-denial, and above all, delight in God above all things.
Lust in all its gluttonous designs is resisted by faith. Faith that God is the Source of supreme joy. Faith that obedience to His Word brings true blessing––both earthly and divine. Faith that taking up a cross is how we obtain a crown. Faith that Jesus’ blood has forgiven you of all your selfish lusts, and now calls you to delight in Him by joyful faith & obedience.
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