Our Problem with Rejoicing
Human Desires

Scripture Reading: 1 Peter 4:3-7

Key Verse: 1 Peter 4:1-2

Therefore, since Christ suffered in his body, arm yourselves also with the same attitude, because he who has suffered in his body is done with sin. As a result, he does not live the rest of his earthly life for evil human desires, but rather for the will of God.

This week’s theme is about facing the things that keep us from “rejoicing always.” In the Apostle Peter’s writings for today we see he mentions “human desires.” According to Peter, we are not to live our life for evil human desires. The desires of our flesh do not all go away after we come to Christ. I wish they did! Our inner spirit wants to please God, but the outer flesh craves to be satisfied. This is the battle we are called to fight every day of our lives while on this earth.

How can we “rejoice always” in the midst of fighting this battle? In my opinion, all of life is balanced on perspective. We can look at this battle as a terrible thing and live miserably. Or we can determine to have the perspective that we’re grateful our inner spirit is fighting the flesh. In other words, at least we see the problem. It is evidence that God is working in us. Many people satisfy the cravings of the flesh without a thought or regret! They are lost in the darkness of this world. Let’s be grateful and rejoice that we have seen the light!

Secondly, we should rejoice in the fact that we can have victory; we need not fail! And if we do fail, God is loving and forgiving! Yes, it is a battle, but let’s look at it as a challenge to use the weapons God has provided and fight. We can win over the flesh because of what Jesus has done for us and in us!

Father, thank you for our victory over evil human desires. I’m glad I am not a victim, but, rather, a victor in Christ. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.