Instinctual living refers to a lifestyle driven primarily by natural impulses and desires, often without consideration for spiritual or moral guidance. From a biblical perspective, living according to one's instincts can lead to a life that is misaligned with God's will and purpose. The Bible provides numerous warnings against following the desires of the flesh, which are often equated with instinctual living.

Biblical Warnings Against Instinctual Living

The Apostle Paul addresses the dangers of living according to the flesh in several of his epistles. In Galatians 5:19-21 , he lists the "acts of the flesh" which include "sexual immorality, impurity, debauchery, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, discord, jealousy, rage, rivalries, divisions, factions, and envy; drunkenness, carousing, and the like." Paul warns that "those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God." This passage highlights the destructive nature of living by instinctual desires, which often lead to sin and separation from God.

In Romans 8:5-8 , Paul contrasts living according to the flesh with living according to the Spirit: "Those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. The mind of the flesh is death, but the mind of the Spirit is life and peace, because the mind of the flesh is hostile to God; it does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so. Those controlled by the flesh cannot please God." This passage emphasizes that instinctual living is inherently opposed to God's law and leads to spiritual death.

The Role of Self-Control and Spiritual Discernment

The Bible encourages believers to exercise self-control and spiritual discernment as a means of countering the dangers of instinctual living. In 1 Peter 5:8 , believers are urged to "Be sober-minded and alert. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour." This call to vigilance underscores the need for self-control in resisting the temptations that arise from instinctual desires.

Furthermore, the fruit of the Spirit, as described in Galatians 5:22-23 , includes self-control, which is essential for living a life that is pleasing to God. "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law." By cultivating these virtues, believers can overcome the impulses of the flesh and live in accordance with the Spirit.

Examples of Instinctual Living in Scripture

The Bible provides several examples of individuals who succumbed to instinctual living, often with dire consequences. One such example is Esau, who sold his birthright to his brother Jacob for a single meal. In Hebrews 12:16 , Esau is described as "immoral and godless" for prioritizing his immediate physical hunger over his spiritual inheritance.

Another example is King David, who, driven by lust, committed adultery with Bathsheba and subsequently orchestrated the murder of her husband, Uriah. This series of instinctual actions led to severe repercussions for David and his family, as recorded in 2 Samuel 11-12.

The Call to Live by the Spirit

The Bible consistently calls believers to rise above instinctual living by walking in the Spirit. In Galatians 5:16 , Paul exhorts, "So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh." This call to spiritual living is a reminder that believers are empowered by the Holy Spirit to overcome the natural inclinations of the flesh and to live in a manner that honors God.

By seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit and adhering to biblical principles, believers can navigate the challenges of instinctual living and pursue a life that reflects the character and will of God.