I long to fulfill my appetite! I even go out of my way to gratify my cravings immediately. I feel very satisfied once I get it. But in some instances, the good feelings last only for a short time. When I come to my senses, I regretfully say: “I should not have given in!”
In my much younger years, I cheated during exams. I copied some answers of my seatmates. I was driven to excel, no matter what the cost. But even if I got high marks, my conscience bothered me. Thankfully, I made a decision to live a life of integrity since then.
Don’t Feed These Appetites
I have natural reactions to certain situations. But I shouldn’t give in to every craving I have. These appetites will only make me sick, distressed, and regretful in the end. It can harm others too.
I made a list of 10 Appetites I must not feed. Feeding them will only make these stronger. It displeases my God, and may lead to discipline and correction. It’s in alphabetical order (“A” to “J”):
1. Appetite of Anger
When I give in to this appetite, I say painful words without thinking. I must learn to take a deep breath, pray, and calm myself down. This allows me to survey the situation better. Usually the outcome is more positive, than if I simply vented my anger.
2. Appetite of Bitterness
Lingering thoughts of bitterness can develop into wrong actions toward the person. Often, I wouldn’t want to associate with that person anymore. Yet, I have to believe that a person can change, and God may still want me to reach out.
3. Appetite of Compromise
I tend to think that a little compromise here or there wouldn’t hurt anyone. I now realize that when I do, I become more prone to bigger compromises. I must never allow any decision to desensitize my conscience.
4. Appetite of Discouragement
Not everything in life will go my way. But if I wallow in self-pity, it may lead to depression. I have to learn from it and start moving forward again.
5. Appetite of Ego
Feeding my ego is a never-ending pit down to self-centeredness. There’s always something more to acquire. There’s always another person to compare to. I have to realize that I’ve been given a life to bless others. It’s not about me.
6. Appetite of Fear
This appetite tempts me to stay in my comfort zone. It paralyzes me. I should take risks in order to fulfill the plans that God has for me.
7. Appetite of Guilt
Even if I’ve fully repented of my sin or mistakes, I still dwell on what I’ve done. I must instead claim the promise of God’s forgiveness. I should make the necessary changes if I don’t want to repeat the same mistakes.
8. Appetite of Hesitation
Although I know what I’m supposed to do, I hold back. I try to justify my inaction. I get convicted with this principle: “Delayed Obedience is Disobedience.”
9. Appetite of Insecurity
Sometimes, I let my past failures, and present limitations, affect how I see myself. I mustn’t look down at myself. I know that I have been created for a purpose. I’m not an accident.
10. Appetite of Jealousy
Media can deceptively depict what a successful lifestyle is. It makes me discontent with the blessings I’ve been given. I should develop an attitude of gratitude for what I do have.
These appetites are so dangerous. It can make me sick in more ways than one. Or worse, even destroy me. My advise: “Don’t feed these appetites.” Instead feed yourself with God’s word and a proper mindset.
I must follow the command in Galatians 5:16-17,
“16 So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. 17 For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want.”
Posted on: Sept 29, 2014
Photo: © Depositphotos.com/andresr
Discussion Question:
What appetite have you been prone to feeding lately? What will you do to stop it? Please share because I’d like to pray for you. Share your inputs below.