How to Satisfy the Flesh
For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life.
Galatians 6:8
It seems as though the flesh is never satisfied, that it continuously searches for something that renews its contentment. For everything in the world–the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life–comes not from the Father but from the world (1 John 2:16). The lust of the flesh and eyes are always seeking something to bring contentment and satisfaction. But this is the nature of the flesh; like everything in the world it is temporary, and its longings can never satisfy the soul.
The Spirit gives life; the flesh counts for nothing. The words I have spoken to you–they are full of the Spirit and life (John 6:63). Our souls seek lasting peace and joy because we were created to live with God where there is lasting peace and joy. But because of the fall we no longer live with God in the Garden of Eden, and Satan tells us that we can satisfy our souls through the things of the world. Remember, Satan is the father of lies, and the flesh counts for nothing in giving life to the soul.
The flesh cannot satisfy the soul, but the soul can satisfy the flesh. So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh (Galatians 5:16). When our souls are satisfied by the Spirit then our fleshly cravings begin to disappear. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well (Matthew 6:33). If you put the Lord first in your life and choose to serve him, your soul will be satisfied through the Spirit and you will be comfortable and content with the worldly things God gives you. The Lord provides the necessities of life and that is sufficient for a Christian who is living life to the full in Christ.
The Apostle Paul was a Pharisee living in luxury and persecuting Christians. Then on the road to Damascus, Paul encountered Christ, who commanded and enabled Paul to preach the Gospel with fire in his soul. What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ (Philippians 3:8). Paul’s flesh was content because of his close relationship with Christ. I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength. (Philippians 4:11-13). Paul’s soul was content to know Christ, and it satisfied his flesh.
Today be thankful for everything God has given you, because the more thankful we are the more content we become. Seek treasures that can be stored in heaven such as love, peace, joy, wisdom and the treasures that come from serving the Lord while ministering to others.
Let’s Pray: Lord, help me to have a truly thankful heart, and let the Spirit bring contentment to my soul. Let my fleshly desires be replaced by obeying your will with a heart of love. Serving you is more fulfilling than satisfying my fleshly desires. In Jesus name, Amen