_CRUCIFYING THE FLESH_
"_Arm yourselves likewise with the same mind._"
--1 PETER iv. 1-8.
Let not the body be dominant, but the soul. Let me study the example and
counsel of the Apostle Paul.
"_I keep my body under._" Literally, I pummel it! If it is obtrusive and
aggressive, its appetites clamouring for supremacy, I pummel it! Paul was
not afraid of severe measures where carnality was concerned. He would fast
a whole day in order to put the flesh in its place. And so should it be
with all the Lord's children. We are too self-indulgent. It is well at
times to put the body on the cross, and crucify its cravings.
"_Give no occasion to the flesh._" Do not give it a chance of mastery!
And, therefore, do not feed it with illicit thought. Turn the mind away
from the subjects in which the body will find exciting stimulant. It is
thought which awakes passion, and thought can do much to destroy it. "Set
your mind on things which are above." Keep the mind pure, and the swine
will never enter the holy place.