THE ULTIMATE BREAKTHROUGH: Recognizing And Fighting The Enemy Called FLESH, By Dr Charity Segun Odeyemi (Lead Pastor, Evergreen Christian Centre Akure Nigeria)

In a world that often measures success by earthly standards, a profound truth emerges: any success that does not prioritize the ultimate goal of reaching heaven can be deemed a failure in the grander scheme of existence.
1 Peter 2:11
Beloved, I beg you as sojourners and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul,
The journey to heaven is not a passive endeavor; it is a battle against unseen adversaries, with the flesh emerging as a formidable enemy.
How to fight the enemy called FLESH
1. Recognizing the Battle:
Success on earth, while commendable in its own right, pales in comparison to the ultimate triumph of reaching heaven. The journey to heaven is fraught with obstacles, and believers must recognize that it is a battle they are called to fight. Among the adversaries, the flesh stands out as a relentless foe, a force that must be conquered for spiritual ascent. Romans 7:18-24 paints a vivid picture of the internal struggle, emphasizing the imperative of subduing the flesh for the sake of the higher goal – eternity with God.
2. Crucifying the Flesh:
Galatians 5:13-25 provides a roadmap for conquering the flesh, depicting the flesh as a potent adversary that can only be subdued through crucifixion. This crucifixion is not a physical act but a metaphorical one, requiring believers to actively engage in practices that weaken the grip of the flesh on their lives. The battle against the flesh is a daily struggle, demanding resilience and commitment to the spiritual path.
3. Feeding the Spirit:
One key strategy in crucifying the flesh is feeding the spirit within. Spiritual nourishment through the Word of God, fasting, and other exercises empower the spirit, diminishing the influence of the flesh. The spirit is insatiable in its capacity to absorb divine wisdom and strength. The more one feeds the spirit, the weaker the flesh becomes. This intentional imbalance shifts the internal dynamics, allowing the spirit to dominate, rendering the flesh powerless to sow seeds of temptation.
4. Walking in the Spirit:
Crucifying the flesh is not a one-time event; it’s a continuous process. Walking in the spirit entails a constant dependence on God for guidance and strength. Seeking God’s opinion in every decision, acknowledging His authority in every aspect of life, and aligning one’s steps with divine principles characterize walking in the spirit. This active reliance on God ensures that every aspect of life is governed by spiritual principles, thwarting the attempts of the flesh to lead believers astray.
In conclusion, In the pursuit of success that transcends earthly boundaries, believers must recalibrate their focus toward the ultimate goal of reaching heaven. The battle against adversaries, particularly the flesh, requires intentional and daily efforts. Crucifying the flesh becomes the central theme of this spiritual journey. Through consistent spiritual nourishment, intentional practices, and perpetual dependence on God, believers can weaken the grip of the flesh, paving the way for a triumphant ascent to the heavenly realms. In embracing these principles, earthly success takes on a transcendent meaning, aligning with the eternal perspective of a life well-lived in the pursuit of heaven.