The first time we meet Jesus, we know enough to make a choice. However, it is not what we know that will determine our choice. Our choice will be determined by the object and intensity of our desires. Our desires impact every aspect of our existence. This is a biblical truth first revealed in the story of Adam and Eve.

As Jesus looked out over His followers, He knew them and their desires. They had good desires. The Jewish people knew the history of the manna from heaven, and how it was sent by their Heavenly Father. They wanted Jesus to provide them with daily bread. They took part in the sacrificial system and the forgiveness of sins, and they wanted this forgiveness of sins. They were good desires, but all were centered in the fleshly concerns of earthy existence. They had what God had already provided, but they wanted more, and they wanted it to be easier.

Jesus knew what His Father provided, and He knew it was not enough. Humanity was created for more than just earthy existence. God created us for a loving relationship with Him, but because of sin we are born with that relationship broken. While their desires were not bad, they were not good enough. They were of the flesh and not of the Spirit. Jesus came into the world to offer them a life of Spirit, not flesh. However, to obtain a life in the Spirit, they would have to desire it.

Life in the Spirit is harder than life in the flesh. Right relationships require more effort than just right actions. Relationships are difficult. The beginning of our ability to have right relationships grows from our relationship with God. We were born estranged from God, and until we are reconciled with Him, we are both helpless and hopeless. It is through faith in Jesus that we are reconciled. When we choose spiritual desire rather than earthly hunger, it leads to saving faith. Only we can choose our desires.