Controlling Our Appetites
1 Corinthians 9: 24 – 27; “Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible. I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air: But I keen under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that be any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.” (KJV).
Paul’s focus aimed at keeping him from being a castaway. Castaway does not mean loss of salvation, which Paul elsewhere said is impossible, but rather failure to fulfill his God given commission to evangelize the nations.
If athletes compete by the rules and master self – control in all things, all for the purpose of winning a crown will fade away, how much more should Christians discipline themselves for a crown that will never fade away.
Paul viewed his boxing opponent as his own body. When it resisted giving up rights and liberties, he brought it into subjection.
Paul had already stated that he endured everything, made himself a slave to all and exercised self – control to allow a hearing for the gospel by not taking a wage.
So, what words would you use to describe our society? Materialistic, sensual, impatient, indulgent, undisciplined – there are just a few. We’re also a “have it now culture.” Satan specializes in presenting us with opportunities for instant gratification while promising us that indulging our appetites will bring us the satisfaction we seek.
Human, appetites, in themselves, are not sinful. In fact, they’re God – given. However, because of our fleshly weaknesses, they need to be controlled. When our appetites rule us, we’re in trouble. Paul likened the Christian life to that of athletes who are so focused on winning the race that they exercise self – control in every area of their lives.
That’s exactly how we’re called to live, yet we lack the motivation, determination, and power to do so in our own strength. For this reason, we need to rely on the Holy Spirit within us. If we yield our lives to Him and step out in obedience to His promptings, we’ll have the strength to say no when desires feel overpowering.
Another key to success is keeping our focus on the eternal instead of the temporal. Many decisions that seen mundane are in fact spiritually significant. Are you indulging an appetite that could result in the sacrifice of an imperishable reward in Heaven?
When the Enemy tempts us, he always tries to keep our attention on our desire and the pleasure of indulgence rather than on the eternal rewards and blessings we’re forfeiting. Just remind yourself how quickly immediate gratification diminishes and how long eternity lasts.