This sermon explores the power of human appetites and the danger of allowing them to control our decisions. Appetites are not inherently evil—God created them—but sin has distorted them. Left unchecked, appetites are never satisfied, constantly demanding “more” and insisting on “now.” When appetites go unmanaged, they often lead to regret, embarrassment, and long-term consequences.

Using the story of Jacob and Esau, the sermon highlights how momentary appetite can cost eternal value. Esau traded his birthright—an inheritance that included a double portion, leadership authority, and future prosperity—for a single bowl of stew. His decision illustrates how giving in to immediate desire can cause us to forfeit what God intends for our future.

The sermon also addresses how the brain influences appetite. First, the brain can lie to us, exaggerating urgency and minimizing consequences. Second, “focalism” causes us to fixate on what we want in the moment, making it seem far better and more necessary than it truly is.

Believers are called to reframe their appetites to align with God’s plan. God often uses our current season to prepare us for what lies ahead, but when appetites dictate our choices, they can derail that preparation and lead to harmful outcomes. The message emphasizes that even after poor decisions, God’s grace is powerful enough to redeem and restore.

Ultimately, the sermon calls believers to keep their focus on Christ rather than their cravings, continually reframing their desires and choosing to do the next right thing. Controlling appetite is not about denial, but about direction—allowing God to shape our desires so they serve His purpose for our lives.