The Seven Deadly Sins: Lust
Lust, often characterized as an overwhelming desire for physical intimacy or pleasure, represents one of the most powerful and complex of the Seven Deadly Sins. Rooted in human nature, lust can manifest in various ways, from passionate relationships to obsessive cravings that can overshadow rational thought and lead to destructive behavior.
Historically, lust has been viewed not just as a simple desire for physical connection, but as a force that can consume one’s mental and emotional well-being. It can drive individuals to seek gratification, often at the expense of their morals, relationships, and even their health. In literature and art, lust is frequently depicted as a seductive and intoxicating force, drawing individuals into a web of temptation.
While a natural human emotion, unchecked lust can result in significant consequences, including infidelity, broken relationships, and even legal issues in extreme cases. It also raises questions about the moral implications of desire, self-control, and the balance between healthy sexual expression and obsession.
In modern society, the portrayal of lust is ubiquitous, often glamorized in media and popular culture, which can further blur the lines between healthy attraction and detrimental obsession. Understanding lust requires a nuanced perspective, recognizing its dual nature as both a fundamental aspect of human experience and a potential path to moral decay if left unrestrained.
BIBLICAL EXAMPLES OF LUST
It’s essential to recognize that lust is a complex and deeply human emotion, often examined through various lenses in the Bible. Understanding these examples can provide insight into the struggles many face with desire and temptation. As I recall my own history with addictions, I realize through prayer, meditation, and reflection that the predominant factor was lust. Let’s explore some of these biblical narratives.
1. David and Bathsheba (2 Samuel 11) King David saw Bathsheba bathing and was immediately attracted to her. Despite knowing she was married, he pursued her, leading to adultery and the eventual murder of her husband, Uriah, to cover up the sin.
2. Amnon and Tamar (2 Samuel 1): Amnon, King David’s son, developed a strong desire for his half-sister Tamar. Driven by lust, he devised a plan to be alone with her, ultimately leading to her rape and severe consequences for both of their families.
3. Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 19) The men of Sodom exhibited extreme lust when they sought to sexually assault the angels who visited Lot. This blatant display of wickedness contributed to the cities’ destruction.
4. Solomon’s Idolatry (1 Kings 11): Although King Solomon was known for his wisdom, his numerous relationships with foreign women led him into idolatry. His lust for these foreign women turned his heart away from God, causing significant spiritual turmoil in Israel.
5. Eve and the Forbidden Fruit (Genesis 3) Although this can be viewed more broadly as disobedience, Eve’s desire for the fruit from the Tree of Knowledge was rooted in a lust for wisdom and power, which ultimately led to the fall of humanity.
These examples illustrate the destructive nature of lust and its consequences throughout biblical history, but also explain why this is a predominant issue in today’s society.
A more modern example is Sean (Puffy) Combs, a prominent figure in the music industry, who has had a more complex career marked by both tremendous success and significant failures, due to lasciviousness. Consequently, it landed him in jail.
1 John 2:16 (NIV) states, “For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world.”
John 10:10 (NIV) states: “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”
Please don’t allow lust to steal, kill, and destroy your abundant life.
Luke 21:36 (AMP) – “But keep alert at all times, praying that you may have the strength and ability to be counted worthy to escape all these things that are going to take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.”
Peace and love,
—Pastor Dwayne
