Email from Abiding Place Daily Bread – January 18, 2025 (The Seventh Day – Genesis 2:1-3) 1 John 2:16 – Because all that is in the world – the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life – is not of the Father, but is of the world. The Desire Of The Eyes One of the first things we might ask regarding this verse is: What is the difference between the “desire of the flesh” and the “desire of the eye”? The “desire of the eye” would be those things that are attractive to view that could lead you away from the will of God and His purposes. For example, Eve saw the forbidden tree in Genesis 3:6 as “pleasurable to the eye and desirable.” She did not have this attraction because of an evil nature at work in her, but under the influence of the suggestion of the satanic realm, she yielded herself to that which was not of God. Looking on that which was forbidden was not an evil act in and of itself – rather it became the means by which she was enticed by what God had forbidden. When men look on things that are forbidden by God, they open themselves up to be led away into an evil desire that results in immorality and ungodliness. Therefore, we need to recognize it is essential for us to make a covenant with our eyes to turn away and not behold that which could lead us into disobedience (Job 31:1). It may be said that the “desire of the eye” is that which entices the eye and the “desire of the flesh” is that which entices the body. Yet, at the same time, one may argue these two are in many respects synonymous. However, the eye looks for that which is beautiful and the body for that which is pleasurable. Now, one may say God made that which is beautiful and pleasurable and this is true. However, Satan has taken what God made, and twisted and perverted it. We must recognize the satanic forces use the material realm of God’s Creation to set up their offensive against man and the will of God. It is absolutely essential that we learn to choose good and refuse evil. In the Old Testament, God expected His people to discipline themselves and be committed to obeying Him in all things. Even though they were not born from above and were without the change of heart and motive given to us now by the divine nature (2 Peter 1:3-4), yet it was their responsibility not to be involved with following after the things that would lead them into sin. “You shall remember all the commandments of the Lord to do them, and you shall not turn back toward the desire of your own heart and your eyes” (Numbers 15:39). Jesus is very clear on how someone should deal with anything that causes a person to sin – cut it off or pluck it out (Mark 9:43-48). Blessings, Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
Daily Bread 1/18/2025
