Never Underestimate the Power of Your Carnal Beast By Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: "For if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live." (Romans 8:13)
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Introduction
The power of carnality, the relentless force of our fleshly desires, should never be underestimated. It is a constant battle that seeks to usurp the throne of righteousness in our lives. This teaching highlights the subtle and vicious nature of our carnal instincts, the necessity of subduing the beast within, and the divine call to live by the Spirit. Through obedience and daily discipline, we are empowered to overcome the temptations of the flesh and walk in the light of God’s purpose.
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The Deceptive Nature of Carnality
Carnality is a seducing spirit that deceives and lures individuals away from God’s purpose. It thrives when indulged, bringing forth darkness and destruction. Many today have yielded to the desires of the flesh, claiming to love God while living in contradiction to His will. "For the mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God, for it does not submit to God’s law; indeed, it cannot." (Romans 8:7)
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The Call to Deny the Flesh
God calls His people to deny themselves and take up their cross daily. To follow Him is to reckon the old nature dead and alive only in Christ. Subduing the flesh is not optional; it is essential for a life led by the Spirit. "And he said to all, 'If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.'" (Luke 9:23)
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The Danger of Indulging Carnality
When carnality is indulged, it brings forth a stench of spiritual decay and separates individuals from God. It leads to spiritual death and places one under the wrath of God. "For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 6:23)
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The Life of the Spirit
In contrast to carnality, a Spirit-led life brings hope, peace, and strength. God provides light and truth to those who choose to obey Him and follow His ways. "But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh." (Galatians 5:16)
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The Role of Discipline
Discipline is the key to subduing the carnal nature. The beast within must be imprisoned and subdued, kept in chains under the authority of the Spirit. To neglect this discipline is to give way to destruction. "Discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness." (1 Timothy 4:7)
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Summary
The carnal nature is a relentless enemy that seeks to destroy the work of God in our lives. To overcome it, we must deny ourselves, take up our cross daily, and walk by the Spirit. God’s call is clear: live not by the flesh, but by the Spirit, embracing the truth and light He provides.
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Conclusion
Living a Spirit-led life requires daily effort, discipline, and obedience. By keeping our focus on God’s purpose, we avoid the pitfalls of carnality and find true life in Him. The old nature must be reckoned dead, allowing us to live in the newness of life provided by Christ.
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Call to Action
Take a moment today to examine your life. Are you indulging the flesh, or are you walking in the Spirit? Choose to deny yourself, subdue the beast within, and commit to living a life of obedience to God’s will. Seek His guidance through prayer and immerse yourself in His Word to find the strength to overcome.
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Final Word of Encouragement
God’s Spirit is ever-present to guide, uplift, and strengthen you. Rejoice in the privilege of serving Him, and remain steadfast in your journey of faith. Remember, "If God is for us, who can be against us?" (Romans 8:31) Stay faithful, and God will lead you into the fullness of His purpose for your life.
