Refusal, In the Moment, To Gratify Ourselves NOW….

Why is “self-control” so important?

Why must we “CHOOSE to refuse”—rejecting gratification of the things our flesh is longing for?

What does the flesh scream for?

Vindication,

“justice,”

calling attention to our looks or accomplishments,

pride,

fear,

entertainment,

escape,

vacation,

food,

smells,

lust,

feelings,

human attention,

love,

affection,

and consoling,

“peace,”

solitude,

or companionship,

material objects

or electronics

or wealth

or “savings” (for the “protection” of the future),

curiosity,

wanderlust,

lack of commitment,

authority over ourselves or others,

lack of pain

or discomfort....

Why does it matter that we restrain our flesh, BY CHOOSING to recognize and not cave in to its demands?

Because all of the kingdom of Heaven is built upon this:

10/12/2004