Four Features of Faith That We Should Follow Hard After - Part 2
Four Features of Faith That We Should Follow Hard After – Part 2
Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.— 2 Timothy 2:22
From our last time together, we discovered that the world rationalized and romanticized youthful lust or fleshly forces as opposed to running away from them.
The Word of God advises us not just to avoid these fleshly forces, but to flee from them and advance forward rapidly toward divine assets like righteousness, faith, love, and peace.
Before we run forward, let’s consider some examples of the fleshly forces/lust that, if not addressed, will fix the young or the old in folly.
Lust and Sexual Temptation present intense physical desires and the chase of carnal pleasures without moral limits. Individuals that are subjugated to sinful lust impulsively run to relationships and see others as objects rather than people.
Pride and Arrogance display a deliberate disposition of egotism which is etched in one's own abilities or knowledge. This is also complicated with a desire to prove oneself or be regarded, which often leads to conflict or poor decisions.
Impulsiveness and Recklessness reflect proceeding ahead without thinking through consequences. Impulsive and reckless actions are usually associated with making decisions based on emotions rather than wisdom or discernment.
The Desire for Power or Recognition advances an attitude of wanting to be in control or seen as significant. This fleshly force causes souls to seek status for selfish reasons.
Argumentativeness and Rebellion are tied to the tendency to challenge authority and stir up disputes. This fleshly force is always quick to argue or defend one's views void of humility.
Greed and Materialism generally lead those in its grip to go after wealth, possessions, and personally prioritize success as a measure of worth. In addition, it consistently creates a captivity of comparing oneself to others and feeling dissatisfaction.
Envy and Jealousy will remove one from respecting and celebrating the success and rewards of others to the resentment of others for their success, relationships, or gifts. This also leads to feeling deficient because of comparison.
The young and old alike can pursue and practice prevention against youthful lust and fleshly desires by promoting spiritual practices, adjoining themselves with wise influences, and roundly residing in truth. Let’s look at and list some practical ways:
Remain Rooted in Scripture. Regular Bible reading helps shape values and discernment.
Seeking the Lord with Prayer and a real Reliance on God. Honest, daily prayer shapes serious intimacy with God and strengthens resolve.
Choose Colleagues by being centered in Wisdom. Surrounding oneself with peers who prioritize purity, love, and service to God.
Steer clear of Tempting Situations. Fleeing means vigorously evading environments, media, or relationships that set a spark to sinful desires. Running from sin must be robust with intentionality. So, setting boundaries with social media, entertainment, or certain conversations and company is essential for escape.
Look for Godly and seasoned Mentorship. Seasoned, mature Christians can give great guidance and wisdom. Having someone to communicate with when confronting challenges can be a lifeline for safety.
Next time, we will focus our attention on the four features of faith that we should follow hard after.
Not a sermon, just some thoughts.
FtGG