We often fall prey to the belief that success leads to the fulfillment of our every desire, when the process of delayed gratification can actually provide a higher level of satisfaction because our journey is typically more meaningful than the destination.

Solomon pursued pleasure for the sake of gratification (see Ecclesiastes 2:1-3; 8b-11). David’s son sought indulgence from wine, women, and song. He married the daughter of Pharaoh (see 1 Kings 3:1) and took on a total of 700 wives and 300 concubines who led him astray (see 1 Kings 11:3). This act violated God’s plan (see Deuteronomy 17:17), but Solomon raised his debauchery to another level when he built temples to their deities (see 1 Kings 11:7-8, 33). His heart was not fully devoted to the Lord who divided his kingdom (see 1 Kings 11:4-13). His love for God turned love for worldly pleasure became legendary (see Nehemiah 13:26).

Prompted by the Holy Spirit, Solomon confessed: “Whoever loves pleasure will become poor; whoever loves wine and oil will never be rich” (Proverbs 21:17). We must beware of the subtlety of the world’s pleasures. While God created everything for our enjoyment, He did not design it to be worshiped. The Apostle Paul taught the church in Rome: “Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the sinful nature” (Romans 13:14).

Is there any pleasure that has captivated your attention and hindered your relationship with God? Surrender it to Him today. The long-term benefits of following His plan for your life far exceed the temporary gratification of anything that stands in the way.

Episode 106: 30 Sayings of the Wise: Future from mitchkrusetv on Vimeo.