DESIRE
Scripture Reading - Psalms 37:4 KJV
Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.
The “desire” of man is an interesting topic because it is far reaching. God created all “good desires” or we could say “godly desires”. “Desire” perverted by an over indulgence of want or inordinate affection is known as “lust”. Natural good things are one ordinary side of the equations for “desires”, like food, clothing and shelter. People realize that we need certain things but “desires” seem to be a step-up from general needs because we would not “desire” something we already have in our possession. Thus, “desire” could be considered by some as a steady hope for better things, situations or our future. Since “desires” are things hoped for by the individual or group the “desire” must seem attainable for certain people upon the earth. As children of God our Heavenly Father fully understands that His beloved children have all types of “desires”. However, our Lord does recommend that we (Christians) put “spiritual desires” above “natural desires” to establish our heart in righteousness because our Father God and Lord Jesus Christ dwell inside us spiritually. The Lord constantly hears our hearts “desire” because He lives on the inside of each and every one of His beloved children. The problem the Lord has in blessing His children to the full extent is many believers don’t whole heartedly pursue (completely desire) the perfect will of God for their life. The pathway to God’s Perfect will is always found through His Word. The Apostle Peter told us this pathway to God’s Plan but some people (Christians) choose to neglect this path because it requires spiritual growth. Remember 1 Peter 2:2 KJV which states: “As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:”. Typically, man likes to grow without putting much effort into it. He experiences natural growth in this fashion because as long as he eats, sleeps and performs his basic duties he will grow from a child to an adult. However, spiritual growth is a lot more involved (demanding). Spiritual growth is not automatic, in fact it takes time, effort, energy, diligence, strength and fortitude. Performing these virtues on a consistent basis requires uncompromised “desire”. Yes, not a “weak desire” that fluctuates but rather a “strong desire” that remains constant allowing the focused Christian to operate on a higher level. Some people think that victory starts with knowing or practicing God’s Word. However, we (ihlcc) believe that godly success starts with the “desire” to know God better. To know God better one must become as God in virtue (the spirit of love) and mind (understanding the doctrine of Christ). Once you clearly understand that the knowledge of God comes at a great price (the Blood sacrifice of Jesus Christ for our salvation) and you are willing to exercise your “desire” (passion) to love God by learning of His Ways, His Attitude and His Power you will become more stronger and settled in Christ Jesus. The Lord gave you a heart to “desire” good things both naturally and spiritually. However, the Lord also put a priority on “desiring” spiritual thing first. So be wise, dear child of God, by keeping your “desires” pure spiritually and attainable naturally to receive the “desires” of your heart from God in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Amen!