The Conquest of Carnality

The Conquest of Carnality

Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.
Romans 8:37

Before we move forward to this week’s blog subject, I believe it would be beneficial to review and expand on the considerable challenge that carnality confronts us with. We will also deliberate on the deceptive dynamics that progress carnality’s plan of capture and mastery of one’s mind and heart.

Carnality exhibits an extreme egotistical expression of self-exaltation and self-gratification. It encourages independence from our infinite God, which initiates with impunity what I refer to as Lustship as opposed to Lordship—steps of separation (the wages of sin is death), disregard of devotion and discipleship, a suspension of sanctification, and a stagnant spiritual life. Consequently, a captive of carnality will consistently be in contention with GOD’S WILL.

Furthermore, the insidious influence of carnality increases when the desire of the flesh enjoys a faithful feast and the influence of the Spirit is disregarded. The following are what I identify as some subtle but sinister spiritual sources that set up a soul to be subject to the slavery of carnality.

• A deliberate disregard and departure from spiritual disciplines
When THE FIVE SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINES OF “MRMAP” (meditation, reading, memorization, application, and prayer), in addition to worship and fellowship, are disregarded, the flesh is galvanized and gains strength.

• Faithfully serving a feast for the flesh (human condition)
The Word of God declares, “And we know that we are of God, and the whole world lieth in wickedness.” 
1 John 5:19
The last remaining Apostle (John), also identified as the one that Jesus loved, is stating that the world—that is, the human systems, as well as its iniquitous infrastructure, philosophies, priorities, culture, and activities—is profoundly powered by transgression, prejudice, pride, perversions, pleasure, and moral corruption. Simply stated, it “is in the grip of the evil one.”

The evil one, or our enemy (Satan), capitalizes on our human condition (sinful) by means of constant exposure to worldly entertainment, ungodly influences, and sinful settings, which nourish carnality.

• Lack of surrender to God
Binding oneself to pride, self-will, and self-sufficiency from our Savior grants carnality permission to not only govern but dominate our lives.

• Isolation from godly and intimate settings of faith-filled fellowship and family
Evading fellowship and accountability encourages carnality, compromises commitment, undermines unity, and weakens spiritual protection.

• Conducting one’s conscience and actions in unrepentance
Whenever sin is accepted or excused, it advances a hardened heart and emboldens and energizes the flesh.

In closing, consider the following checklist that conveys a soul that is captured by carnality:

  • I regularly prioritize entertainment, pleasure, or comfort over prayer and Scripture.

  • I usually engage in harboring bitterness, pride, jealousy, and lustful thoughts.

  • I consistently make excuses and reject responsibility for sinful habits instead of confessing and forsaking them.

  • I prioritize my time with worldly pursuits with little thought of God.

  • I have a contentious disposition toward correction or accountability from other believers.

Remember, the Word of God calls us to exercise the discipline of self-examination (2 Corinthians 13:5). The practice of self-examination promotes prevention from the infection of carnality.

Not a sermon—just some thoughts.

FtGG

Philip King