1 John 2:16 (KJV)

"For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world."

God provides a clear warning about the dangers of worldly desires. These desires are rooted in our physical senses and our egos, leading us away from God’s truth and into spiritual darkness. When we prioritize satisfying our flesh, we become slaves to our flesh. Many people question God because it doesn't fit their thought process and fleshly feelings. They focus so much on what they feel that it breeds distrust in their lives. They not only make themselves miserable but also everyone around them as well. This leads them to isolation and running away from their problems.

Trusting in these desires leads to a life dominated by temporary pleasures rather than the eternal joy found in God. They fall into a deception of false peace and stay stunted in their spiritual growth. It's truly sad and miserable to live this way.

Our eyes can deceive us, making us believe that material possessions or external beauty will bring fulfillment.

However, these things are fleeting and often lead to envy, dissatisfaction, and a constant desire for more.

When we trust in what we see, we lose sight of the true value that comes from a relationship with God.

Satan wants to isolate each and every one of us in order to speak to us through our thoughts. He teaches us that conflict is not a good thing. He plants arrogance and self-sufficiency that comes from trusting in ourselves. He makes us believe that we are the masters of our fate which leads to ultimately throwing away God. This false sense of confidence and security crumbles at the slightest challenge however. Trusting in our flesh, experiences, and perspectives pulls us away from God. The more we rely on our senses and worldly understanding, the more miserable and distant we become. 

True fulfillment and joy come from trusting in God, whose ways and thoughts are higher than ours. In order to trust something, the requirement is that it cannot make sense. When things or situations make "sense", there is no need trust in God. Most people think they trust God, but rather they are confirming God. They want everything to make sense and they want peace in their lives but they do not trust God or his servants. Sadly, they claim to want to grow with God but the end result is always resorting back to believing in themselves. People who do this will live miserably no matter how much they tithe, pray, work out, get a better career, or find a better relationship. 

The Bible calls us to live by faith, not by what we see, think, and feel. This means trusting in God’s promises and guidance even when we can’t see or understand His plans. It requires surrendering our desires and perspectives and aligning ourselves with His will. By doing so, we find true peace and purpose. 

I hope each and every one of you guys can experience true peace and happiness through the constant denial of your thoughts and feelings. 

God wants us to live in communion with him. He wants us to lean on him and not our own thoughts or experiences. Please do not let the opportunity to grow with God pass you by. 

Amen!