Romans 8:12 Therefore, brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live after the flesh. 13 For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live. 14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.
There are times when as men, we will have to say no in our minds, even though the flesh is saying yes. The conflicts of Romans 7 have to do with the mind saying no to what we know is wrong, whilst at the same time the flesh is saying a definite yes. On this point it is worthy of note that the cravings of fallen human nature have absolutely no respect for Bible studies, sermons or memory verses.
It is quite possible, that as Joseph fled out of the room from Potiphar’s wife, that his flesh was saying yes. Joseph was in his prime, his engine was firing on all cylinders, and the physical urge to merge can run riot at times resulting physical reactions and the like, even without formal consent from one’s mind.
The flesh is unruly and its clamors can become so strong that desires and truth are pulled in opposite directions. This conundrum is especially severe with men, as it pertains to lust, since Adam fell for what he saw, while Eve fell for what she heard. That’s also one of the reasons why Paul stated that he finds it a law, that whenever he wants to do the right thing, evil is present with him.
Romans 8:There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. 2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.
May The Lord add His blessing to the study of His word. God bless!