What Is Lust?

Lust is defined in the Bible as an intense or uncontrolled desire, often of a sexual nature, that leads one away from God’s will and into sinful behavior. Lust is considered sinful because it focuses on selfish gratification rather than the love and respect that God intends for human relationships. Here’s what the Bible says about lust:

1. Lust Is a Sinful Desire:

• Lust is more than just a physical attraction; it’s a deep, overwhelming desire that seeks fulfillment outside of God’s design. James 1:14-15 NKJV says, "But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed. Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death."
• Explanation: Lust begins as a desire in the heart, but when it is entertained and nurtured, it leads to sinful actions. The Bible warns that unchecked lust can lead to spiritual death, as it separates us from God’s righteousness.

2. Lust Is Condemned by Jesus:

• Jesus spoke explicitly about the seriousness of lust and equated it with adultery. Matthew 5:28 NKJV says, "But I say to you that whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart."
• Explanation: Jesus highlights that sin is not just about external actions but also about the condition of the heart. Lustful thoughts and desires are just as serious as physical acts of adultery because they reveal a heart that is not aligned with God’s will.

3. Lust Leads to Idolatry:

• Lust is often associated with idolatry because it places personal desires above God’s commandments. Colossians 3:5 NKJV says, "Therefore put to death your members which are on the earth: fornication, uncleanness, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry."
• Explanation: When we allow lustful desires to control us, we make them an idol, placing them above our devotion to God. This idolatry is dangerous because it shifts our focus away from God and toward our own selfish desires.

4. Lust Is a Work of the Flesh:

• The Bible categorizes lust as a work of the flesh, which is in opposition to living by the Spirit. Galatians 5:19-21 NKJV says, "Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God."
• Explanation: Lust is a manifestation of the sinful nature that all humans have. It is one of the many behaviors that are contrary to the life God desires for us, and it prevents us from inheriting the kingdom of God if left unrepented.

5. Lust Disrupts Relationships:

• Lust not only affects our relationship with God but also damages relationships with others. Proverbs 6:25-26 NKJV says, "Do not lust after her beauty in your heart, Nor let her allure you with her eyelids. For by means of a harlot a man is reduced to a crust of bread; And an adulteress will prey upon his precious life."
• Explanation: Lust can lead to destructive behaviors that harm others and destroy trust within relationships. It objectifies people and treats them as means to an end, rather than valuing them as individuals made in the image of God.

6. Lust Can Be Overcome by Living According to the Spirit:

• The Bible teaches that living by the Spirit is the key to overcoming the desires of the flesh, including lust. Galatians 5:16 NKJV says, "I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh."
• Explanation: By cultivating a close relationship with the Holy Spirit and allowing Him to guide our thoughts and actions, we can resist the temptation of lust and live in a way that pleases God.

7. Lust Must Be Actively Resisted:

• The Bible calls believers to actively resist and flee from lustful temptations. 2 Timothy 2:22 NKJV says, "Flee also youthful lusts; but pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart."
• Explanation: Overcoming lust requires intentional effort to avoid situations that might lead to temptation. This includes making choices that protect purity, such as avoiding inappropriate media or relationships that encourage sinful behavior.

8. Lust Is Contrary to God’s Design for Sexuality:

• God’s design for sexuality is within the context of marriage, where it is a beautiful expression of love and commitment. Hebrews 13:4 NKJV says, "Marriage is honorable among all, and the bed undefiled; but fornicators and adulterers God will judge."
• Explanation: Lust perverts God’s design for sexuality by seeking gratification outside of the marriage covenant. It distorts the purpose of sex, which is meant to be a sacred bond between a husband and wife.

9. Lust Can Be Healed by God’s Grace:

• Despite the struggle with lust, God offers grace, healing, and forgiveness to those who turn to Him. 1 John 1:9 NKJV says, "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."
• Explanation: No matter how deep the struggle with lust, God’s grace is sufficient to cleanse and restore. Confessing lustful thoughts and behaviors to God opens the door to His healing and helps us start afresh in our pursuit of purity.

10. Lust Is Overcome Through Renewal of the Mind:

• Overcoming lust involves renewing the mind with God’s Word and focusing on things that are true, noble, and pure. Philippians 4:8 NKJV says, "Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things."
• Explanation: The battle against lust is fought in the mind. By filling our minds with God’s truth and focusing on positive, godly things, we can combat lustful thoughts and live in a way that honors God.

In conclusion, lust is a powerful and destructive force that can lead to sin, broken relationships, and spiritual death. However, through the power of the Holy Spirit, the renewal of the mind, and the grace of God, lust can be overcome, leading to a life of purity and holiness that honors God and aligns with His design for our lives.