When it comes to matters of character, we have a choice between two options. There are a lot of ways to explain it. Flesh and spirit. Wisdom and foolishness. Our choice reveals in which option we have placed our trust.
In most situations, the choice of flesh is one preoccupied with instant gratification: what feels good now. And choices of the spirit are based on delayed gratification: trust and hope.
We find it difficult to face mystery, uncertainty. To grapple with the reality that we are not God and we are not in control. To trust something other than our own base desires.
And in the midst of this difficulty, we make treacherous choices. Decisions that abandon truth and try to gain a delusion of control by fulfilling our most immediate superficial desire.
It is hard to wait. It is difficult to trust in the Lord. Faith is a challenging proposition, absurd to the world and the flesh within us.
God promises that those who choose the spirit win in the end. That the delayed gratification is true and lasting while our addiction with instant gratification is insatiable and meaningless. God will not embarrass us in the end by withholding the fullness of his blessing forever. Enigmatically, the waiting is even part of the blessing.
There are two options in front of you today. Which will you choose?