What Do You Desire?
Below is an audio version of the blog, read by Kay Naomi
According to Webster’s Dictionary, the word "desire" can be defined as “a strong feeling of wanting to have something or wishing for something to happen.” The truth is, we all have desires - things our hearts long for. These “things" can span the gamut from notoriety to a healthy family. However, our desires must be investigated. What motivates our desire? Is it pride, lust, or the promises we received from God? In essence, desires can come from God or come from our humanity. This reality is described in the book Galatians.
But I say, walk habitually in the [Holy] Spirit [seek Him and be responsive to His guidance], and then you will certainly not carry out the desire of the sinful nature [which responds impulsively without regard for God and His precepts]. Galatians 5:16 AMP
This scripture confirms there are desires we experience that are contrary to living a life that pleases God. We are adults here so let me share the first example that came to mind. As a single, unmarried woman, I may desire to have sex. The desire in itself is not wrong. God created sex. However, the desire cannot be acted upon because God has clearly expressed in His Word that sex is to be enjoyed within the covenant of marriage.
This is why we must walk with God daily. He empowers us; He gives us the grace and strength to fight against the desires of our flesh and to exhibit self-control (which is a fruit of the Holy Spirit.)
We find numerous places in Scripture where God indicates He is ready and willing to grant the desires of our hearts; however, there are some prerequisites. Let’s explore a few of them together. (This is by no means an exhaustive list.)
Delight yourself in the Lord, And He shall give you the desires and petitions of your heart. Psalm 37:4 AMP
He will fulfill the desire of those who fear Him; He also will hear their cry and save them. Psalm 145:19 NKJV
Two thoughts are highlighted in these verses: delighting in the Lord and fearing the Lord.
What does it mean to delight yourself in the Lord? Webster defines the word “delight” as “a high degree of gratification or pleasure.” Another way to describe this is to say we take pleasure in the Lord. This speaks of an intimate and fulfilling relationship. Just like our earthy relationships, growing to this place with God requires time and intentionality. As we spend time with Him and allow Him to lead us, correct us, and teach us, our desires begin to shift. We don’t want to succumb to our fleshly desires because want to please Him.
I often ask God to reveal if any desires in my heart are not in alignment with what He desires for me. I believe He can trust us with our desires because we desire what He desires for us!
The second verse speaks of the fear of the Lord. This refers to having a heart posture of reverence towards God (not literal fear). There is a portion of Psalm 34 that outlines in more detail what it looks like to fear the Lord.
Come, you children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the Lord. Who is the man who desires life, and loves many days, that he may see good? Keep your tongue from evil, and lips from speaking deceit. Depart from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it. Psalm 34:11-14 NKJV
There is that word again, desire! A heart submitted to God puts you in the position to experience the fulfillment of desires. We do not honor and obey to manipulate Him into giving us what we want. We do it because we love Him.
So much more can be uncovered about the topic of desires but we will stop here. I hope this conversation was a reminder that we have to be honest about what we desire and why. We also must submit our desires to God. Above all, may your ultimate desire be for Him.
One thing I have desired of the Lord, that will I seek; that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to inquire in His temple. Psalm 27:4 NKJV
Dear Heavenly Father,
May I desire you more than anything in this world. Thank You for helping me to desire what You want me to desire. Help me to fight against my fleshly desires and to exhibit self-control. Teach me to delight in You and fear You. In Jesus’ name Amen.
Until Next Time,
Live and Love Audaciously!
Kay Naomi